Santas are Slacking

Saint Nicholas, or “Santa Claus,” has been a popular figure in the Christian faith since the 19th century. Acting as a symbol of hope during times of difficulty or distress, Santa Claus is an example of how to remain positive. Throughout the years, Santa has contributed to childhood innocence and joy.

Two reporters, sophomores Katie Parks and Virginia Gaston, traveled around Charlotte to give an account of the local Clauses. They visited three Santas, located in Plaza Midwood, Cotswold Village, and South Park Shopping Center.

The first visit at Plaza Midwood proved quite disappointing. When Katie and Virginia showed up to the Merry Midwood Market and Tree Lighting Festival, they were disheartened that Claus didn’t come. After driving 20 minutes, the reporters along with many other children returned home without getting to sit on Santa’s lap. 

Next, Katie and Virginia headed to Cotswold Village in search of Santa. Upon arriving, the writers wandered throughout the shopping center as Mr. and Mrs. Claus were allegedly roaming. After five minutes of searching, the journalist's spirits grew weary. About to give up and move to the next location, they passed The Butlers Pantry and were ecstatic to find the Claus couple inside. 

From there, the reporters were able to get a fun picture with Santa and Mrs. Claus and tell them their Christmas wishes. They proceeded to walk throughout the shopping center with the Clauses and even took a pit stop at Dairy Queen for blizzards. Leaving Cotswold jolly and merry, Katie and Virginia were given free cookies. 

 Progressing to the next stop, the journalists headed to South Park Mall. Excited to capture the classic “sitting on Santa’s lap” picture, the girls were in high hopes to see that Santa was there and the line was short. Their hopes were quickly diminished upon finding out Santa had “gone to feed his reindeer for an hour.” Even more frustrating, the girls learned if they wanted their “quick pic” they would have to pay a minimum of $50 per person. 

Many parents in our society struggle to pay for Christmas for their children. When young boys and girls go to tell Santa all their wishes, they should not be turned away because of overpriced fees that their parents cannot pay. After meeting the South Park Santa, it is clear he is only in it for money. 

 Christmas season is all about giving back to others. Cotswold Village did an immaculate job embracing the true meaning of Christmas. They were great at interacting with kids and you could tell they were doing it just to make others happy, not for personal benefit. 

On the other hand, Plaza Midwood and South Park failed to spread Christmas spirit. Children at both places got their hopes up for Santas that didn’t show up and charged overpriced fees that their parents weren't willing to pay. 

Santa Claus is a figure meant to spread cheer and raise spirits during the holiday season.  Unfortunately, the majority of the Santas in Charlotte are failing to do this. This is a sad representation of what society has become. While some people still remember the spirit of Christmas, many seem to have become self centered and have forgoten what Christmas really means: spending time with family, and giving to others.