Former President Obama did his best Santa Claus impression while making a surprise hospital visit at Children's National Health System in Washington.
The ex-commander in chief was seen sporting a Santa hat while greeting shocked pediatric patients and staff in a Wednesday video shared by the hospital on Twitter.
"We had a chance to talk to some of the wonderful kids and their families," Obama told a crowd gathered in the hospital.
"At a time that is obviously tough for folks, and the dad of two girls, I can only imagine in that situation you know to have nurses, staff and doctors and people who are caring for them, and looking after them, and listening to them and just there for them and holding their hands," Obama, dad to 20-year-old Malia, and Sasha, 17, said.
"That's the most important thing there is," Obama, 57, added. "What a great reminder of what the holiday spirit is supposed to be all about."
Thank you @BarackObama for making our patients' day so much brighter. Your surprise warmed our hallways and put smiles on everyone's faces! Our patients loved your company...and your gifts! https://t.co/bswxSrA4sQ ❤️ #HolidaysAtChildrens #ObamaAndKids pic.twitter.com/qii53UbSRS
- Children's National (@childrenshealth) December 19, 2018
- Children's National (@childrenshealth) December 19, 2018
In true Santa fashion, he also brought some gifts along, including Matchbox cars, puzzles and Starburst-scented nail polish. Obama also left a video for patients he wasn't able to speak to, according to a Children's rep.
Obama's visit came less than a week after his wife made a similar unannounced trip at a children's hospital in Colorado. While there, Michelle Obama spoke with children alongside Santa Claus at an event and read the holiday classic "The Night Before Christmas."