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Santaland returns to Macy's in Herald Square
Sinterklaas is coming to town!
With Christmas just over a month away, thousands of people are awaiting the arrival of the man in the red suit. Well, before he takes his annual blast down your chimney and munches on those delicious cookies, he needs to make a quick stopover to the city that never sleeps.
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Macy's annual Santaland returns this year on Black Friday (November 29)! While Macy's is known for their spectacular and magical light shows and displays during the holidays, the experience further awakens and highlights the magic of the Christmas season. The attraction typically attracts more than 170,000 visitors per year.
The Santaland tradition dates back to 1862, when the store wanted to create a magical holiday experience for families and, of course, the chance to meet Santa Claus himself. The event will take place on the 8th floor of the iconic Herald Square store. Throughout the building you will find helpful elves who will guide you to the exhibition and the man of the hour.
As you enter the magical land, you'll encounter whimsical lights, decorated winter trees, and even nutcrackers, reindeer, and the iconic Rainbow Bridge, although we're not sure if Rudolph will make an appearance this year. There are life-size trains perfect for photos and a winter village fit for the hardest working elves.
Unlike previous years, the company requires reservations. Reservations can be made up to five days before the opening day. Macy's does note that the reservation time is to get in line to enter the attraction. You must include all parties in your reservation, and the maximum per reservation is nine people, including adults and children. Macy's recommends booking Monday through Thursday as weekends can be quite hectic. While admission is free, the photos you can purchase cost $39.99.
The cheerful man with the curly white beard will be available for photo ops and for your little ones to tell him their wish list. Macy's is also practicing diversity this year and making sure there are a variety of options available.
“For decades, we have offered guests the opportunity to meet Black Santa, Caucasian Santa and Hispanic Santa with the goal of providing representations of Santa Claus to help meet the vision and needs of our customers,” said the booking website. states. “Select your preference when prompted when making your reservation.”
You can choose to sit next to him or on top of his gifts. They are also offering a sensory-friendly experience on December 7 and 14. During the experience, selected elements of the attraction will be customized, guests will be escorted privately through Santaland by one of Santa's elves, and during their visit with Santa, guests will be given extra time to ensure a peaceful and enjoyable experience.
“Guests will visit Santa Claus as he sits on his throne. He is excited to see you and take a photo. You can choose to sit next to him on his throne or on a red gift box nearby,” the website says. “Young children who cannot sit independently need an adult or older child to sit with them to keep them upright. Santa Claus will not be able to hold children on his lap.”
The country is open from 8 a.m. on Black Friday and from 10 a.m. on the following weekend. Weekdays open at 10am and end at 9pm. So be sure to check the calendar when you make your reservation.
Macy's in Herald Square has a rich history when it comes to holidays. Not only do they host the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade – a mile-long stretch of life-size balloons of your favorite cartoons and iconic characters, there are also live performances from school bands, the Rockettes, and favorite bands. singers including The Temptations, Chlöe Bailey and Charli D'Amelio this year.
“For generations, Macy's has been the ultimate vacation destination that brings friends and families together, creates lasting memories and inspires our customers,” said Kathleen Wright, director of production operations at Macy's Studios. “We look forward to helping customers continue their beloved holiday traditions.”
Santaland opens the day after the parade.
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Náosha Gregg
