For over 100 years, the post office has been spreading holiday magic with Operation Santa. Here's how it works...

1. Letters are written to Santa and sent to a special USPS (United States Postal Service) address

2. Letters are published online (minus personal information)

3. Kind strangers adopt the letters

4. Letter adopters ship the gifts

Here's what the letter should include...

• Name and age

• Wishlist (be specific including size, style, color etc)

• Address

• Santa's address: Santa Claus, 123 Elf Road, North Pole, 88888

The program opens September 16. Letter adoption begins November 18. Letters to USPS Operation Santa must be postmarked no later than Monday, December 9.

*photos are from USPS