Meet the Real-Life Couple Keeping Holiday Magic Alive as Santa & Mrs. Claus on the Austin Trail of Lights

For the past 12 years, Guy Benson and Deborah Parsons have embodied the Christmas spirit as the official Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Austin Trail of Lights, which celebrates its 60th year this December. 

Their festive journey with Austin Trail of Lights started in 2012, but their commitment to spreading holiday cheer extends further. The couple’s heartwarming tale began nearly three decades ago when Parsons, working in the fire department, and Benson, working in EMS, crossed paths during educational outreach programs in public schools.

“When we saw each other, we fell in love, and next thing, we’ve been together for 29 years,” laughs Benson. 

Before he donned the iconic red suit at Austin Trail of Lights, Benson dedicated almost two decades to Santa Claus work, initially raising funds for pet organizations and becoming Blue Santa for Austin Police Operation Blue Santa. Parsons eventually was asked to join him. 

“I never planned on being Mrs. Claus,” explains Parsons. “I thought, ‘Should I be insulted?’ But, the children ran up and said, ‘We’ve never had a Mrs. Blue Claus before!’ I fell in love with it.” 

Together, they served on the Austin Police Operation Blue Santa’s board of directors and as Mr. and Mrs. Blue Santa for 15 years. However, a life-altering event in 1999, just a month into Benson’s retirement, sparked a new chapter in their lives. A near-fatal encounter with a drunk driver inspired them to establish “Danger Without Intentions,” a program aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of impaired driving. Through their program, they’ve reached over 3 million people across Texas, sharing a powerful message of responsibility. 

“You don’t want to be on Santa’s naughty list of that one,” warns Benson.

Becoming Mr. and Mrs. Claus at the Austin Trail of Lights was a dream come true. As a native Austinite, the Trail holds a special place in Benson’s heart, evoking childhood memories of attending the festival with his father. The event, now celebrating its 60th anniversary, has grown from a small “Yule Fest” in 1965 to Austin’s biggest holiday celebration. With more than 2 million lights, 90 lighted holiday trees, and 70 other holiday displays and lighted tunnels, it’s a dazzling spectacle that draws millions of visitors.

Parsons’ favorite part of the experience is witnessing the joy on children’s faces, especially because Santa visits are welcome to all Trail-goers and photos are provided completely free of charge. 

“The Trail of Lights is amazing because of the simple fact that I’ve got some of the best elves in the world,” adds Benson, praising the volunteers from Dell Children’s Hospital who assist them.

Due to such high demand, the couple also facilitates the booking of other Mr. and Mrs. Clauses and on RedSanta.org and even has a Santa’s Workshop to maintain their costumes, props, sleigh and reindeer. Benson’s dedication to his role is evident in the sheer number of appearances he makes each year.

“Most Santas will work for 30 days, but I start in November,” explains Beson. As the Austin Trail of Lights celebrates its 60th anniversary, the couple reflects on its enduring appeal. “It’s a Christmas tradition for Austin,” says Benson. “It’s how you kick off the season.” 

They’ve witnessed the event evolve over the years, but its core magic remains the same. “We watch them grow,” says Parsons, referring to the children who return year after year. In fact, the very first baby Guy Benson helped to deliver when he worked with Austin EMS, named Guyanna in honor of Guy himself, comes every year to see him at Trail of Lights.

“Now, Guyanna brings her grandchildren, and they all get to come up there and get a picture with Santa,” says Benson. “That’s one of the few times that we stop the line.”

Maintaining their holiday cheer throughout the season is no small feat, but the couple takes it in stride. “We don’t really notice until Christmas Day,” shares Parsons. “I’m sore in my mouth from smiling constantly.”

With their unwavering commitment to spreading joy and their deep-rooted love for the Austin community, Benson and Parsons continue to illuminate the holiday season, one twinkling light at a time. Their story is a testament to the power of love, service and the enduring magic of the Austin Trail of Lights.

Plan your visit to Austin Trail of Lights.