BLACK HAWK — “They’re the real deal,” whispered one parent while gazing at Santa and Mrs. Claus at Mountain Poppy Boutique this past Saturday. 

When asked how long they have been visiting Black Hawk, Mr. Claus replied, “Oh, since 1859,” with a jolly grin.

Though the story of Santa dates back to the third century, it was not until the 20th century in America that he became known as the jovial fellow dressed in red with a large white beard.

Santa's image went through many iterations over the years. He has not always been illustrated as a cheerful soul with a red coat, rosy cheeks, a portly belly, and black boots. Before 1931, he was shown as a tall, gaunt man or a spooky-looking elf. 

Many know him as Saint Nicholas, or St. Nick, and that reference comes from a place far from America. According toThe Legend of Santa Claus: Part 1. The Origin and History of a Christmas Legend, “Saint Nicholas was born around 280 A.D. in Patara, in modern-day Turkey. Legend states that Nicholas had a giving spirit and traveled the countryside helping those less fortunate and the sick. 

"Nicholas' parents were wealthy and left the bulk of their estate to him when they died. Nicholas, who always had the spirit of giving, took his inheritance and gave to those less fortunate and lived a life of humility. December 6 marks the anniversary of St. Nicholas’ death.

"The name, Santa Claus, was stated to evolve from Nick's Dutch nickname, Sinter Klaas, a shortened form of Sint Nikolaas, which is translated as the Dutch name for St. Nicholas.”

Mountain Poppy Boutique and Wine bar, owned by Leza Spencer, has hosted Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus for several years running, offering photo opportunities, crafts, treats, and goodie bags for the kids. To add to the magic, the City of Black Hawk has sponsored several holiday decorations all along Gregory Street, effectively transforming it into “Christmas Street.” 

Mayor David Spellman and I stood in the Gregory Street Plaza admiring the Christmas decorations, especially the cheerful Santa outside the Copper Kitchen. Spellman laughed as he described how quickly kids discovered its hidden feature. One child realized he could pop his head up through the toy bag, turning it into an irresistible photo op.

As the children piled into Mountain Poppy, Mr. and Mrs. Claus sat ready to receive them on their laps. 

Some shy little ones stayed tucked against their parents, so Santa and the missus invited the whole family to take a seat. Others warmed instantly to the welcoming elf, racing forward to embrace him, their eyes bright with wonder.

The mythical duo encouraged adults to come sit as well, and several did. They were very persuasive, and I, too, eventually caved, temporarily regressing to my childhood for a photo with Santa.  

Even a couple of Black Hawk police officers got in on the fun. When asked what he wanted for Christmas, one officer said, “An extra 30 hours paid time off would be nice,” bringing laughter to the room.

Other adults wished to be with their families and “to relax.” Easy enough requests for the magical man in red, although I’m doubtful he’ll be dropping off the new Lexus one lady asked for.

The children’s requests were more manageable: a new ball, a bicycle, a coloring set, shoes, etc.

Santa and Mrs. Claus were so authentic, and their spirit carried an unmistakable warmth and generosity. They seemed, in every way, the real deal. 

If you missed Santa and Mrs. Claus, don’t fret, for Santa’s reindeer will be traveling through Black Hawk at JKQ BBQ on December 14 from 1 to 4 p.m. (We’re talking “real deal” live reindeer.) Hamburgers, hot dogs, and free hot chocolate will be available in the JKQ parking lot located at 200 Gregory Street. 

Mountain Poppy Boutique and Wine Bar is located at 317 Gregory Street in Black Hawk. They can be reached at 720-669-0665. More information can be found on their Facebook page: facebook.com/mountainpoppyboutique.