Seeing Santa at the mall is a Christmas highlight for just about any munchkin under the age of seven. Just telling him their deepest secrets and knowing he will arrive on a mysterious night fuels their excitement for weeks.
No longer do parents need to travel outside St. Albert to meet him. Starting this Saturday until Christmas Eve, the rotund old elf will claim his throne at St. Albert Centre. Across from the Bay, an enchanting Nutcracker-themed exhibit boasting a life-sized Klara, Nutcracker Prince, Mouse King and Joker beckon to passers-by.
“It’s magical to them. They see Santa and their faces light up,” says Lindsay Botha, financial representative for St. Albert Centre. About 3,000 children visit annually.
This coming Saturday only, from noon until 4 p.m., Santa will give each visiting family free photographs. Tips to deal with stressful long line-ups include going early to avoid the rush and keeping kids occupied with a stationary game or music and books. If possible have one adult hold a spot while the second one takes the children for a short walk.
After Saturday, Santa’s visiting hours are extended Monday to Saturday noon to 3 p.m. and 4 to 8 p.m. On Sunday hours are shortened noon to 4 p.m.
Botha added that throughout the month of December, Victorian clad carollers will be singing on Saturdays. There is also a large Kinette Christmas hamper donation box by the food court. “We really encourage people to donate non-perishable food items and new and unwrapped toys.”
For more information visit www.stalbertcentre.com.
