Does Christmas even happen if your kids don’t visit Santa Claus?
For the second year in a row, my kids have gone to Macy’s iconic Santaland for the quintessential holiday photo with jolly ole’ St. Nick. This year marks the 39th year that the famed department store has offered this festive opportunity for families right in the heart of Manhattan.
Like last year, the space was incredibly inviting, festive and oozing with winterized flair. From dancing pigs to trains zipping around a snowcapped cityscape, the merriment of the season was on full display along our enchanted journey.
Photo Courtesy of Macy’s, Inc./Mike Coppola
As we boarded the the “train” to Santaland, we were greeted with elves decked out in Christmas-themed getups. Think green and white stockings, red shirts and yellow smocks—the perfect attire for Santa’s hardworking workshop helpers in the North Pole.
Throughout Santaland, my children’s eyes sparkled with delight as they saw animatronic polar bears, a massive sleigh stuffed with toys and teddy bears, trains zipping around and a grand Christmas tree twinkling with colorful lights. To say they were mesmerized would be an understatement.
Photo Courtesy of Macy’s, In.c/Mike Coppola
Additionally, there were elves making wooden bird houses along the path that made the interactive experience exciting and memorable.
Once we made our way through the enchanted Santaland, we got to meet the big guy, Santa Claus himself. Since representation matters in all forms, I was extremely pleased that choosing a Black Santa was an option. Since my kids had originally met Black Santa back at our local mall in Brooklyn, seeing him again at Macy’s Herald Square played nicely into my children’s vision of Santa Claus.
Not only was Santa warm-spirited and attentive, but he was also super funny! While I’m sure there will be a rotating group of Santa’s, I’d bet that most are trained to be like the awesome one we had. My kids beamed as they told him what they wanted and he even got my husband and me to tap into our childhood and share our Christmas wish lists.
If you’re looking for an affordable (entry is free and photo packages start at $22) dose of holiday cheer, Macy’s Santaland is a must! Plus, the classic photos and magical memories will last a lifetime.
Macy’s Santaland Herald Square is currently open and runs through December 24. For reservations and more information, be sure to check out Macy’s Santaland.
Do you children take holiday photos with Santa Claus?
What a wonderful idea for the holidays!
You and family look amazing.
Looks like so much fun the kids are having.