It's the end of an era, at least for this year, as Macy's announced today that Santa will not be making an appearance at their flagship New York store this holiday season. For the first time in 160 years, kids will not be able to visit Santaland because Santa Claus will not be coming to Macy's due to the coronavirus health pandemic.
The company announced that it made the decision because it's simply too difficult to ensure a safe, socially distanced Santaland experience in-store. More than a quarter of a million people head to the flagship store each year to visit jolly old St. Nick meaning that the crowds are simply too large to safely manage, the AP reports. The crowds are often thick as parents and children navigate Santaland before finally greeting Santa himself. Santa will also not be appearing at neither the Chicago nor San Francisco stores this holiday season, but kids will still be able to spot him during his appearance at the finale of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade.
While it may not be the same as seeing him in person, Macy's is still offering customers a chance to experience the magic of Santaland, just in a new, safer way. The store will be offering a free, online experience on their website. "We are working hard to reimagine Santaland and create a safe experience for kids and their families," the site states. Part of the new, virtual experience will allow families to take a virtual selfie with the man in red himself.
“Moving to a virtual engagement will safely bring the magic of Santa Claus to children of all ages this year,” Macy’s said in a statement to The Associated Press.
The holidays are bound to look different for many people this holiday season due to the current health pandemic. Many local health authorities are warning against trick or treating for Halloween this year over safety concerns and there is already worry over large gatherings during Thanksgiving. With numbers on the rise in almost every state, it's more important than ever that people do all they can to stay safe and healthy.
Although Macy's will still hold their traditional Thanksgiving Day parade, it will look much different than in years past. The floats will not travel the typical parade route, instead, they will be filmed as they travel one block down 34th Street, in front of the flagship store. “Under the unique challenges of these unparalleled times, we felt it was important to continue this cherished holiday tradition that has been the opening act to the holiday season for generations of families,” Susan Tercero, executive producer of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade said in a statement. “While it will certainly look different in execution, this year’s Macy’s Parade celebration will once again serve its historical purpose — to bring joy into the hearts of millions across the nation.”
Source: The Associated Press