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Santa’s Wonderland at Cabela’s is back, and for the first time in two years, children can sit on Santa’s knee to share their Christmas wishes without any masks between them.
General manager Wayne Yakielashek said Santa’s Wonderland was started 14 years ago in the United States, and it’s made its way up to Canada in the past five years.
“For five years we’ve created memories that kids will love,” he said.
The COVID-19 pandemic didn’t stop Santa’s Wonderland from operating in 2020 or 2021, but it did look quite a bit different.
“The last two years (we) definitely saw a decrease of people coming out,” Yakielashek said, adding that last year there was a clear plastic screen between Santa and the kids, and masks were required the year before.
The reaction this year has been a positive one. Yakielashek said the store is starting to see more families visit. Last weekend was the busiest he’s ever seen, with up to 10 families every 15 minutes.
Yakielashek said there are still contactless options for photos, such as sitting in front of Santa or on a bench beside him for pictures.
One of the store’s Santas this year has flown in all the way from Dubai, and said he is excited for the Christmas season.
“Now it feels so much better because everybody can interact together again, and we missed that the last couple of years,” Santa said.
He said some popular toy requests he’s getting from children this season are Lego, Barbies, and remote-controlled pickup trucks.
Reservations can be made on Cabela’s website, and walk-ins are also welcome. The first photo is free, and the last day of Santa’s Wonderland will be on Saturday.
