Full photo experience back as kids can sit with Santa again
After two years of being forced to keep a safe distance because of Covid, children can once again enjoy the full Santa photo experience this Christmas season.
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After two years of being forced to keep a safe distance because of Covid, the full Santa photo experience is finally back.
This year children will again be able to sit with Santa, give him a hug, a high-five and whisper their Christmas wishes into his ear – at least at all Westfield shopping centres.
Meanwhile, children who for whatever reason want a bit more personal space for their meeting with Mr Clause have the option to sit on a separate seat close by, as they did last year.
Katie Palmer-Rose was over the moon to see her three-year-old daughter Elliot finally able to enjoy the Christmas tradition after growing up in the pandemic.
“This is going to be the first time that it is really back to that traditional exciting anticipation that we are used to … now it feels really inclusive, my daughter was on Santa’s lap and it felt like they were really connecting again, and that’s the exciting thing about this Christmas,” Mrs Palmer-Rose said.
“Having that close interaction and attention, it just felt so much more magical.”
One of Santa’s helpers at Eastgardens Westfield said he can’t wait to meet boys and girls from November 12.
“This is what Christmas is all about. Even though kids meet me for a short time every year, the memory lasts a lifetime, so it’s absolutely wonderful that we’re preparing to return to such a special tradition,” he said.
“I’m excited for all the high-fives and fist bumps and looking forward to seeing all the mums, dads and kids in just a few short weeks – even the naughty ones!”
Sensitive Santa sessions will also be available for children with sensory processing issues who want to meet Santa in a more relaxed environment.
Pet photography is also back, so fur babies can also enjoy some time with Santa.
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