Some cities keep Santa visit tradition alive despite COVID-19 pandemic

DELAWARE – In Delaware, Santa’s helpers are doing all they can to bring Santa Claus to families during the coronavirus pandemic.

“It’s a joy to still see families and I’m glad that we were able to work out a way to keep everyone safe,” said Santa Claus.

In Milford, Santa won’t be able to greet people at the Santa House like he usually does because of the virus, but the city still wanted to keep the holiday tradition alive. So, they set up a Santa Claus drive-thru at the City of Milford Customer Service Building (119 S. Walnut Street).

“This is a huge tradition for Milford and there was never a question of canceling,” said Nina Pletcher, the Chairperson of the Promotion Committee for Downtown Milford.

Pletcher says families pull up to a screen where they’ll see Santa. They’ll share their Christmas wish and then Mrs. Claus will give them a candy cane and a postcard.

“For us, the Santa House is something we do every year,” said Hilary Valentine, a Milford resident.

“It’s a tradition and so for us to be able to come and see him on screen we still get to have that magic moment even though it’s a little different,” said Valentine.

Meanwhile, the Lewes community is also keeping this Christmas tradition alive. They chose to keep Santa at the Santa House, but people have to stay outside to keep social distance.

“I know it’s a crazy year for everyone, but the children are enjoying it just as much as ever, and they’re just as excited to see Santa,” said Robyn DelleMonache, a Lewes resident.

“They’re not worried about sitting on his lap,” said DelleMonache, “They understand.”

And some people tell 47ABC they’re happy there’s a way to continue making these special memories.

“We come here every year, but this year was just a little bit different,” said Easton Falgowski, a Lewes resident.

“It’s nice to still have him here and the safety precautions were right on cue so it was perfect.”

Pletcher says in the past Milford would have up to 1,300 children come see Santa every year, but of course this year things are slower. She says they’re also looking for more volunteers to help with the Santa Claus drive-thru.

Click here for more information about how you can volunteer to help with the Santa Claus drive-thru.

Click here for more information about the Santa Claus drive-thru in Milford.

Click here for more information about the Lewes Santa House.