'We just appreciate that they were willing to pivot': Santa spreads joy despite COVID-19
In a COVID-stricken world, even Santa has to abide by the rules.
For the second year in a row, the man in red has been meeting with kids on the nice list virtually via Zoom.
By renting out a studio in Lethbridge, Santa in also now able to take on private bookings for those who want to get a photo with him.
"This year, we've just opened up and we're just doing a few studio photo shoots, and that kind of stuff," said Santa.
And he’s doing this out of the kindness of his heart.
“Just to keep things going, keep the kids going and keeping the hope of Christmas alive here in Lethbridge.”
Admittedly, Santa described getting the studio set up under a short amount of time as a “big challenge.”
“But I’ve got some good elves, and man they pulled it off fast,” said Santa.
“It was unbelievable how fast they worked and what we got done.”
SAFETY TOP OF MIND
COVID-19 safety is top of mind for Santa. Kids can't sit on his lap for photos and everyone needs to be masked.
That doesn't bother the Gunderson family who were delighted that their daughter got to meet Santa for the first time this year.
“I think we just appreciate that they were willing to pivot,” said Ashlyn.
“This is our baby's first Christmas, so, we'd be very sad if we didn't get the opportunity to see Santa at all.”
For Ashlyn’s husband Rob, skipping all the commotion at the mall during the busy holiday season was what sold him.
“Yeah, it definitely felt safer for sure, and more intimate, and it was a little cozier honestly. Instead of the big-mall picture and big lineup, it was kind of nice to get in the little house setting and yeah, cozy that way,” described Rob
SANTA CANCELLED
Park Place Mall cancelled Santa’s appearance for a second year running, due to COVID-19 concerns.
That was disappointing for many eager to share their wish list with ol' St. Nick.
“I’m 10 now, so I’ve been doing it for quite a long time,” said 10-year-old Ella.
“It doesn't help that I have a new baby sister, and since there’s no mall this year, we can't start that tradition for her and it’s her first Christmas, so it’s really disappointing.”
Santa has been doing photos with children in the Park Place Mall for 28 years, and he’s hopeful next year things will look a little more normal again.
To book a virtual meeting with Santa, visit www.callfromsanta.ca
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.