Santa Claus is real, but he doesn’t live at the North Pole. He’s 75 years old, and he lives in New Orleans.

Also, he’s black.

If you’re from New Orleans, odds are you’ve got a picture with the 7th Ward Santa. Maybe your parents do too. And if you’re old enough to have them, so do your kids.

Every year for the past 45 years, Fred Parker has brought a soulful holiday cheer to elementary schools, community centers, and even frat parties.

VICE News caught up with the Chocolate Santa himself to find out why he’s so passionate about his job, and if he ever plans on hanging up the suit for good.