KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Zona Rosa is keeping its holiday tradition with Santa this year, but also implementing new changes due to the pandemic.
"I think 2020 has forced us to adopt change whether we want it to or not," Zona Rosa General Manager Scott Zigler said. "This past weekend we lit our tree in the crowns, but we did not have a big festival, we didn't have the gatherings. And so we worked hard to try to figure out ways to deliver that same service, the same Santa experience, but do so in a safe manner. Just because things are different doesn't mean that we're not finding new ways to celebrate and honor these things."
If you live or traveled to the Northland during the holidays, you've probably taken pictures at the Christmas tree or with Willard the reindeer. Those picture hot spots will still be available, with some new places to take selfies with the families.
If you plan to visit Santa, there will be some big changes you'll see compared to last year:
- Online reservations are required. You can reserve your spot here.
- Masks are required at all times, including Santa Claus himself.
- Zoom chats with Santa are available if you don't feel comfortable going in-person.
- Cleaning will be done after each reservation.
Children can still take pictures with Santa. However instead of sitting on his lap, there will be a socially distanced bench for children to sit on. Santa will be separated by Plexiglass.
While there are a handful of new changes and protocols, Zigler hopes families can still enjoy the new version of an old tradition.
"2020 has been a challenging year for everyone in the community," Zigler said. "You know, we're hopeful that our efforts to provide a unique, but traditional holiday atmosphere is appreciated by the community and we're happy to provide a little joy back to them."
This runs from Nov. 27 to Christmas Eve. To learn more, click here.
