Santa visits take on a much different look during COVID-19 pandemic

With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing to see a high number of cases, visits to Santa have taken on a much different theme than in years past.

Two area malls are offering different options for your child to get some time with Santa Claus.

This year, at the Dartmouth Mall, children will still be allowed to take a picture with Santa, albeit without touching Santa.

Santa will be stationed behind a plexiglass shield to protect himself and guests.

The mall has also instituted the following protocols:

STAFF
Masks will be worn by all employees.
Employees will have their temperatures taken daily.
Set will be sanitized after each visit.
Hand sanitizer will be provided for all staff members.

GUESTS
Guests will wear masks at all times, except during photo session.
When guests arrive, greeter will check-in each reservation and take temperatures of all guests.
A Parent/Guardian will place children on designated seating.
Guests not wanting to be in pictures are asking to social distance from Santa, Photographer.
After pictures are taken, guests will proceed to the checkout station.

If you wish for your child to still experience Santa without taking a trip to the mall, you can still do so virtually.

If you have been recently exposed to COVID-19 or have symptoms, Dartmouth Mall hopes you will choose the Virtual Visit option.

Your child(ren) will be able to visit Santa in the comfort of your home via a virtual visit.

Providence Place Mall offers three virtual options for Santa visits.

Visit with Santa
Enjoy pre-session entertainment and a live virtual visit with Santa. For extra holiday fun, add storytime with Santa or Mrs. Claus to your session. Invite up to four guests for this experience.

Storytime with The Clauses
Choose a session with either Santa Claus or Mrs. Claus and gather the family around as they read you a story. Choose from a selection of stories and invite up to four guests to join.

Pre-Recorded Personalized Santa Video
Receive a pre-recorded message from St. Nick that’s personalized just for you. Santa will record a video message to your kids based on information you provide in your family profile during your booking. Watch your children stare in amazement as they watch their very own video from Santa.

While this year’s options are not quite the same as children getting the chance to sit on Santa’s lap and ask for what they want for Christmas, there are at least options out there.

Contact either mall for more information and reservations.