Gone are the days when children could cozy up on Santa’s lap at the mall, sharing their holiday wishes without a second thought. Today, Santa has transformed into a high-demand figure, and malls are eager to cash in on his popularity. However, this strategy backfired recently at a New Jersey shopping center.
The Cherry Hill Mall made headlines this week after announcing a hefty $50 entry fee for families wishing to meet Santa Claus—a stark contrast to previous years when visiting Ol’ Saint Nick was free, even if families opted not to buy photo packages. This year, the mall decided to follow the playbook of Ebenezer Scrooge by confining Santa to a windowless enclosure, accessible only to those who had purchased an expensive photo package priced between $35 and $50.
According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, the mall attempted to justify the new fee by claiming that it was part of an enhanced experience, which included a 15-20 minute pre-show featuring iPads for virtual gingerbread house design, singing elves, and a simulated sleigh ride. However, many families felt excluded, as the only way to meet Santa was to pay up front. This change was particularly perplexing, as the same attraction had been offered the previous year without any admission fee.
Once the news broke, parents took to the mall’s social media platforms to voice their outrage. Many expressed that if the mall desired to charge for a high-tech experience, they should also provide an alternative Santa visit for families who couldn’t afford the pricey packages. One frustrated parent lamented, “Is it really $35 just to see Santa? That’s ridiculous! It’s disappointing to see so many kids potentially missing out because of money. A boycott is in order!”
The overwhelming response from the community prompted the mall to reevaluate its stance. In a statement, a spokesperson acknowledged the backlash, stating, “We listened to our shoppers. Many felt that charging a fee was not in the spirit of the holidays.”
The holiday season is indeed a time for joy, but it also places a financial strain on many families. Traditionally, visiting a mall Santa has been a cherished experience that brings delight without the burden of costs. While interactive experiences can be exciting, they shouldn’t be mandatory for something as fundamental as meeting Santa. After all, Santa represents generosity and kindness—he shouldn’t come with a price tag that keeps some kids from enjoying the holiday spirit.
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Summary
Cherry Hill Mall faced significant backlash when it introduced a $50 fee to see Santa Claus, prompting many parents to express their discontent on social media. The mall has since reversed its decision, acknowledging that such charges detract from the holiday spirit. This situation highlights the importance of keeping holiday traditions accessible to all families, ensuring that the joy of meeting Santa is not overshadowed by costly fees.
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