Santa visits returning to Fairview Park mall

Ho, ho, ho! After a year away, a holiday tradition is coming back this season.

In-person Santa visits will be happening at Fairview Park mall in Kitchener beginning November 14 to December 24.

They will take place at Hudson's Bay Court and photo packages will be available. 

Lilian Stojanoski, with CF Fairview Park said, “This holiday season, we're looking forward to helping Canadians discover the magic of the season and of course, with safety in mind. We want to bring the community together in a safe and spirited way.”

Health and safety measures will be in place for the event.

“Santa's safety is very important to us so Santa and all his helpers are vaccinated, and everyone visiting Santa's cabin is required to wear a mask and practice social distancing,” said Stojanoski.

Children will not be able to sit on or near Santa. 

Guests will need to sanitize their hands and are being asked to refrain from eating or drinking while inside the Santa experience.

Staff will also sanitize the set between each visit. 

Stajonoski added that proof of vaccination will not be required for visitor's to Santa's cabin as of now, and local and provincial regulations will continue to be followed if anything changes.

Anyone who wants to take part in the in-person Santa visits will need to make a reservation online.

Tickets and booking are available now. 

There will be a $5 fee for each booking and the fees will be donated to Grand River Hospital Foundation and Autism Speaks Canada.

Cadillac Fairview plans to match these donations. 

People who would like a Santa experience can still get one without going to the mall. 

Stojanoski said, “For those who prefer Santa experience from the comfort of their own homes, we are pleased to offer again virtual storytime with Santa. Sessions will be December 4th and 18th.”

She added the virtual experience was very popular last year and was fully booked. 

The storytime sessions will be streamed live on Fairview Park Mall's Facebook page.