Santaland Returns to Macy’s in NYC
Santa Claus is coming to town!
As you continue to digest your Thanksgiving dinner, it’s time to prepare for the merriest visit of all from the man in red himself: Santa Claus. The family-friendly, magical experience returns to the iconic Macy’s flagship store in Herald Square, ensuring you and your family have a jolly visit before the hectic holiday season begins.
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Macy’s annual Santaland returns today, November 28th (Black Friday) this year! While Macy’s is known for their spectacular and magical windows and displays during the holiday season, the experience further awakens and highlights the magic of Christmas time. The attraction typically receives over 170,000 visitors each 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 himself. The event occurs on the 8th floor of the iconic Herald Square store. Throughout the building, you will find helpful elves directing you to the exhibit and the man of the hour.
When you step into the magical land, you will be met with whimsical lights, decorated winter trees and even nutcrackers, reindeer and the iconic Rainbow Bridge, though we’re not sure if Rudolph will be making an appearance this year. There are life-sized trains, perfect for photos and a winter village fit for the hardest-working elves.
Unlike previous years, the company is requiring reservations. Reservations can be made up to five days in advance of opening day. Macy’s does note that the reservation time is to join the line to enter the attraction. You must include all parties in your reservation, and the maximum per reservation is nine people, adults and children included. Macy’s advises booking Monday through Thursday, as the weekends can become quite hectic. While admission is free, photos available for purchase will cost $39.99.
The jolly man with the curly white beard will be available for photo opportunities and for your little ones to share their wish lists with him. Macy’s is also practicing diversity this year, ensuring there are diverse options available.
“For decades, we have offered the opportunity for guests to meet Black Santa, Caucasian Santa & Spanish-speaking Santa with the goal of offering representations of Santa, helping to meet the vision & needs of our customers,” the booking website states. “Please select your preference when prompted while making your reservation.”
“Guests will visit Santa as he sits on his throne. He is excited to see you & take a photo. You can choose to sit next to him on his throne or on a red gift box nearby,” the website continues. “Young children who are not able to sit up on their own will require an adult or older child to sit with them to hold them up. Santa will not be able to hold children on his lap.”
Santaland will be open starting at 8:00 a.m. on Black Friday and at 10 am on weekends thereafter. Weekdays open at 10 am and end at 9 pm, so be sure to check the calendar when making your reservations.
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