It might be harder to see some of Santa's helpers this year.

Saint Nick visited the News 12 Connecticut newsroom Monday, taking pictures with staff and spreading Christmas cheer.

"I have an app on my phone if you want to take the test to see if you're on the naughty or nice list," said Santa.

This guy is the real deal. It even says so on his license. Since Santa is so busy, especially this time of year, he's a little short on help.

"The helpers that I do have are really good, and they do a great job, I just don't have enough. That's the problem," said Santa.

Mitch Allen with Hire Santa says there is over a 30% increase for Santa's helpers from last year, which is a record.

"Many Santas decided to hang up the red coat and others didn't want to risk getting COVID. And unfortunately, we lost a great number of Santas in the last 2 1/2 years," said Allen.

The jolly old elf, before he left the News 12 Connecticut newsroom, said this and every holiday season we should remember to believe.

"There's Santa in all of us and the important thing is love, to love everybody," said Santa.

Santa says there is also an increase in the diversity of his helpers too.