Thousands of parents around the country are exactly two weeks away from the inevitable, "So, we've got to tell you the truth about Santa Claus" conversation.  But . . . maybe you don't have to.

--A new survey asked people which fictional character is the MOST plausible and really COULD be the one that exists.  And Santa Claus came in first . . . getting more votes than all the other options combined.  Check it out . . .

#1.)  Santa Claus.  52% say it's most likely that Santa could actually exist.

#2.)  Leprechauns.  19%.

#3.)  Cupid.  17%.

#4.)  The Tooth Fairy.  6%.

#5.)  The Easter Bunny.  5%.