Halloween hasn't even arrived, but Kris Kringle is getting a jump-start on his Christmas plans.

Since the man in red can't be everywhere at once, some of his elves are lending a hand to whip Santa representatives into the holiday spirit this weekend in Calgary. Learning the tricks of the craft isn't easy but Calgary's "Santa School" has drawn wanna-be St. Nicks from as far away as New Mexico and from all across Canada.

"I think that the perception that the public has is you just put on a red suit and you're qualified to be Santa," said one student, who identified himself only as Santa Tomas. "There's so much to it."

The Santa and Mrs. Claus students spend three days learning the ins and outs of becoming the big man — or woman.

That includes vocal lessons, performing tips and perfecting the art of the Santa Claus entrance — right down to the ringing of the bells.

After learning the skills for success, the only thing aspiring Santas have left to practice is patience, as they wait for the Christmas season to begin.