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Featured on the Today Show: Kindhearted Santa & Mrs. Lizzie Claus of 'The Claus Vacation' Bring Branson’s Christmas Magic to the Nation
America Fell in Love with Branson — and Its Kindhearted Santa
Branson, Missouri was proudly featured on NBC’s Today Show as part of its national spotlight on America’s Merriest Main Streets, and right in the heart of the celebration were Kindhearted Santa and Mrs. Lizzie Claus.
Surrounded by glowing lights, joyful crowds, and the unmistakable spirit of the Ozarks, this beloved Santa couple helped showcase why Branson is one of the most magical Christmas destinations in the country.
As seen on the Today Show — sharing joy, kindness, and Christmas cheer with millions of viewers nationwide.
Meet Kindhearted Santa & Mrs. Lizzie Claus of 'The Claus Vacation'
A Santa Experience Rooted in Heart, Tradition, and Joy
Kindhearted Santa and Mrs. Lizzie Claus are known throughout Branson and beyond for their warmth, authenticity, and genuine love for people of all ages. Their appearance during the Today Show’s Branson Christmas feature was a natural reflection of what they do best — creating meaningful holiday moments filled with kindness, laughter, and connection.
From children hearing Santa’s gentle voice for the first time to adults rediscovering the wonder of Christmas, their presence turns moments into lifelong memories.
Why the Today Show Chose Branson — and Why Santa Matters
The Today Show highlighted Branson for more than its lights and decorations. It celebrated:
- A community that embraces the true spirit of Christmas
- Traditions that bring families together
- Genuine joy you can feel the moment you arrive
Kindhearted Santa and Mrs. Lizzie Claus perfectly embody this spirit, making them a treasured part of Branson’s holiday story and a standout presence during this nationally televised moment.
A Branson Christmas Like No Other
Branson’s holiday season is filled with:
- Millions of Christmas lights
- Festive Main Street celebrations
- Family-friendly events and traditions
- A welcoming small-town heart
And at the center of it all is a Santa who doesn’t just wear the suit — he lives the message.
Bring the Magic to Your Event
Book Kindhearted Santa & Mrs. Lizzie Claus
Kindhearted Santa and Mrs. Lizzie Claus bring the same joy and professionalism seen on the Today Show directly to your celebration.
Authentic • Gentle • Heartfelt • Unforgettable
As Seen on NBC’s Today Show AND KY3
Watch the Today Show feature highlighting Branson as one of America’s Merriest Main Streets and catch a glimpse of the Christmas magic that made national headlines. As part of TODAY’s Merriest Main Streets series, KY3’s Emily Pritchard talks to Heather Hermen with the Branson Chamber of Commerce to discuss how this town celebrates the holidays.
When kindness leads the way, Christmas shines brighter.
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Documentary Behind the Beard: Making Santa Real
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Branson’s Beloved Mr. and Mrs. Claus Bring the Magic to the Silver Screen in Award-Winning Documentary Behind the Beard: Making Santa Real
BRANSON, MO — The magic of the North Pole has found a warm-weather home in the Ozarks, and now it is heading to the silver screen! The Claus Vacation, Branson’s premier holiday entertainers, proudly announces that its very own stars, Elizabeth Ruch (known affectionately as Mrs. Lizzie Claus) and Tracy Ruch (the ever-joyful Kindhearted Santa), are featured in the award-winning documentary film, Behind the Beard: Making Santa Real.
Directed by Brandon Rice, Behind the Beard recently captured the hearts of audiences to win the coveted "Audience Favorite Documentary" award at its world premiere at the Riverside International Film Festival. Having enjoyed a highly successful festival run with multiple accolades across the country, the film offers a heartwarming, pull-back-the-curtain look at the extraordinary lives of the professionals who keep the spirit of Christmas alive all year round.
“Liz and Tracy embody exactly what Behind the Beardis about, their desire to bring magic and love to everyone they meet," shared director Brandon Rice. "I’m thrilled we get to bring the film to Branson for its Missouri Premiere and share it with their hometown audience.”
For The Claus Vacation, who have dedicated their lives to bringing joy, wonder, and holiday magic to families living and vacationing in Branson, this documentary is a beautiful celebration of their calling to spread Christmas Spirit.
"We are blessed to share a glimpse into our Christmas world," says Elizabeth Ruch, Mrs. Lizzie Claus. "While we love taking our 'vacation' here in beautiful Branson and visiting with families right in their vacation homes, being part of this documentary allows us to spread that Christmas cheer to audiences everywhere."
The Claus Vacation is a proud, active member of the Branson Christmas Coalition, an organization dedicated to growing and enhancing the region's holiday spirit. As highly-rated, award-winning performers, The Claus Vacation have become a staple of Ozark Mountain Christmas traditions, delivering unforgettable, multi-generational experiences.
Also, as a member of the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, The Claus Vacation has increased their involvement with local Branson businesses and community events.
To perfectly capture the whimsy and wonder of Kindhearted Santa & Mrs. Lizzie Claus, the documentary features breathtaking b-roll footage provided by local Branson talent, Michaela Patterson of OneShot Photography. As an award-winning portrait artist recognized for her vivid storytelling and mastery of capturing family magic, Patterson's stunning visual contributions bring the enchanting reality of The Claus Vacation to life on screen.
The Branson community and Christmas fans alike, are cordially invited to celebrate this cinematic achievement at a special local premiere screening of Behind the Beard: Making Santa Real at the
Premiere Event Details:
- Date: Sunday, November 1, 2026
- Time: 8:00 PM CST
- Location: The Showroom at Branson Meadows
- Tickets: $10+tax per person
Join Kindhearted Santa, Mrs. Lizzie Claus, and a theater full of believers for a night of movie magic and holiday cheer.
For more information about the film, to secure tickets, or to invite The Claus Vacation to your next gathering, please explore the following resources:
- The Documentary: behindthebeardmovie.com
- The Claus Vacation: theclausvacation.com
- OneShot Photography: bransonsphotographer.com
- The Showroom At Branson Meadows: theshowroombranson.com
- Branson Christmas Coalition: bransonchristmas.org
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Media Contact:
The Claus Vacation
417.595.7716
