For children, and even for some adults, meeting Santa and confessing the heart's desire is a moment of mystery, wonder and unbridled joy. The drive to solve the mystery can lead to magical moments: asking "Are you really Santa," or yanking on Santa's beard, but the truth is that everyone — young or old— wants to believe.

Secret Santa, a team project produced for Advanced Techniques. Audio and video editing by Kristen DiFate. Photography by Kristen DiFate, Andrew Feiler and Christie Megura.