Santa Claus is coming to town - he’ll just be appearing on a socially distanced gondola wearing a mask.
And because it’s 2020, there will be no close contact or sitting on Saint Nick’s lap.
Abbotsford’s Highstreet Shopping Centre earlier today (Friday) announced plans to move forward with Santa Photos under the guidance of Fraser Health. Strict cleaning procedures will also be followed in between all appointments.
“After yesterday’s provincial announcement, we now require all guests, staff and Santa to wear a mask for the entirety of their appointment,” stated Katrina Owens, the marketing manager of Highstreet in an email.
The first appointments begin Saturday, but Owens pointed out that they are fully booked for Santa Photos and there are no available appointments at this time.
Meanwhile, Santa will not be coming to Sevenoaks Shopping Centre.
Sevenoaks made the announcement to cancel the in-person Santa photo experience on Wednesday due to the COVID-19 virus and the restrictions that have been put in place to fight its spread.
They did state they will be offering other promotions and contests that will be safe for customers and their families to participate in.