The tinsel is on the trees, the sleigh bells are ringing, and if you squint, you might mistake the Regency Mall plaza for the North Pole.
“Emma is very excited; it’s her first year recognizing Santa and she’s looking forward to Christmas this year,” said one parent waiting in line for pictures.
Getting an annual holiday photo with Santa, like stuffing stockings or putting presents under the tree, is a long-standing tradition, and Mary Kay Ficenec has witnessed it passed down through the generations for more than 20 years.
“It will be our 24th year. Now these kids are 24 years old, and it’s amazing to see them come back every year and grow, and they’re in high school, cool college.
“I honestly enjoy going to see Santa with my family. “I have a large family and many siblings, so it’s always fun to see when everyone gets to see Santa,” said another person posing for pictures with Santa.
While the majority of the children’s attention was focused on the gifts Santa brought, a few children were curious to check if Santa was real.
“I’m putting some baby powder in the garage right now to see if my parents are going in there to bring the presents,” said Isabella, who was waiting with her brother for pictures with Santa.
Mom and dad, however, were not convinced.
“I’m not sure how they’ll catch someone who is real so…lets what happens” said her dad.