Adelaide Santa photos freed from Covid Christmas Grinch

The favourite tradition is back, as easing Covid restrictions mean children will finally be able to greet a maskless Santa with a hug.

Santa Claus is coming to town with an extra spring in his step as easing Covid restrictions mean the “Christmas magic will return” to shopping centres this holiday season.

Entertainment agency Essential Talent looks after the Santas seen in major shopping centres across South Australia.

Entertainment school director Tony Carpenter said masks will no longer be required at Santa visits and children will finally be able to greet the white-bearded favourite with a hug.

Despite the return to pre-pandemic traditions, Essential Talent is suffering a Kris Kringle crisis after losing a sleigh full of their regular Santas,” Mr Carpenter said.

“Last year was especially difficult with Santa having to wear a mask and the kids having to stand 1.5 metres away,” he said.

“Thankfully this year kids will be able to sit on Santas knee if they want to and we will have all the fun activities to do while they wait to see him as well.”

While restrictions have been rolled back Mr Carpenter said parents would still need to book in advance to see Old Saint Nick once he arrives in shopping centres from November 11.

Santa with Avie Asimos, 6, at Actors Ink in Adelaide, where kids have been able to sit on Santa’s lap for the first time since Covid. Picture: Matt Loxton

Essential Talent used to have 50 Santas and over 100 helpers on its books, but this year is still on the hunt for 12 jolly Christmas lovers.

“We have lost a lot of our traditional Santas this year because they have gotten too old,” he said.

“Santas can be young or old and come in all different shapes and sizes, so I encourage any eager person to apply.”

Bill Purvis, 73, has donned the red coat and beard for 20 years after working as a photographer for most of his life.

Mr Purvis said anyone can be a great Santa Claus as long as they are a good listener and embrace the Christmas spirit.

“It is just a matter of being receptive to the child and listening to them,” he said.

“You don’t know the background of the children you meet so you don’t know what life they have at home or school.

“But if a child does come in looking sad, at least I can make sure they leave with more happiness than when they arrived.”

The Royston Park resident said putting on the Santa uniform each year feels as though he is stepping into a “living story”.

“It is like being within the pages of book where I can add a new chapter to that child’s life,” he said.

“Each Santa would agree that you get to have some wonderful experiences with the children and their families.

“I remember one year a mother came in with four children. She lined them up in a row and they all started singing Christmas carols.”

Santas working with Essential Talent receive a base rate of $36 per hour and must have a Working with Children Check.

Originally published as Adelaide Santa photos freed from Covid Christmas Grinch