Can the statement 'Santa Claus exists' be justified?

I argue that Santa Claus exists as a symbolic social force in the west. His image is recognised by the entire occident and has become an integral part of the celebration of christmas. It is this image which plays a functional role in society similar to the Durkheimian role of religion. The symbolism contained within the myth of father christmas is representational of social truths and therefore I am forced to conclude that to deny the existence of Santa Claus is both aburd and philosophicaly vulgar.