Above: Many Southborough kids are looking forward to the day the “real” Santa flies* into Southborough to find out what’s on their wishlists this Christmas. (photos by Beth and Joao Melo)
Santa will be making his annual pre-Christmas trip to town this Saturday, December 2nd. Weather permitting, he’ll be flying in by helicopter again.*
As is tradition, the helicopter will land on the St. Mark’s field at the corner of Routes 30 and 85 at noon. He’ll greet the crowd and head over to the Community House for his true purpose. There, he’ll get a chance to find out from children what they want for Christmas.
As always, the Community House event is from noon – 3:00 pm. The doors close at 3:00 pm and there can be quite a line, so don’t wait too late to show up!
There are some specifics that change from year to year. So, here are the details you’ve been waiting for.
Entrance to the Community House is $10 per family, which includes one 4×6 photo with Santa. Additional photos are available for purchase at $10 each. (This year, they’ll be employing a professional photographer to help speed things along. But you are still allowed to snap some quick shots with your own camera/phone.)
As for the line, it’s an experience itself. OK, waiting in line is never FUN. But Kindergroup does keep the kiddies pretty entertained through the wait.
There will be student carolers and character visits. Inside the hall, kids can listen to holiday music and enjoy crafts and other diversions.
Even with all that, the waiting line may be overwhelming for children with special needs. So, special arrangements are available for their families again this year. (Scroll down for details.**)
When the kids meet the Big Man, they can sit on his lap to share their Christmas wish list. On the way out, families can cap off the experience with Christmas cookies.
This year, there will also be food vendors on St. Mark’s field for purchasing lunch and snacks to eat outside the venue.
Santa Day is put on each year by Southborough Kindergroup with the help of sponsoring local businesses.
The event is one of several Christmas/holiday themed events in town this weekend. You can see the week’s events listing here.
*The jolly old elf is scheduled to fly in by helicopter to St. Mark’s field at noon (the corner of Routes 30 & 85.) If weather prohibits, the back up plan is arrival by fire truck.
**Event organizers understand that some families have children with special needs who want to visit Santa, but may find the line and busy waiting area too difficult. If you need to make special arrangements for a child with special needs, please reach out to contact Sorcha Stegall (sorcha.stegall@gmail.com). Kindergroup will try their best to be accommodating based on the number of requests they receive.
