A holiday tradition returned to downtown Amherstburg last Friday night.
The Santa Shout Out was held outdoors next to the Gordon House at the corner of Dalhousie St. and Murray St. Despite cold temperatures, families gathered around the giant “snow globe” where Santa & Mrs. Claus were stationed.
The wishes of the children were conveyed to Santa inside the globe by town tourism staff through an earpiece.
The event was sponsored by Team Brad Bondy.
“The Santa Shout Out is a special event we do during River Lights to spread holiday cheer and let people see Santa before Christmas,” said tourism co-ordinator Jake Kigar.
Kigar indicated the Santa Shout Out has been running for a number of years and has become a trusted holiday tradition in Amherstburg. He said it always brings out good crowds of people and local families help celebrate the season in town.
Watching children have their wishes read aloud by Santa Claus was a highlight, Kigar pointed out.
“It’s very special to see the magic in their eyes when they have their name called,” said Kigar.
The town’s tourism office gets regular feedback from people heading into the event with many wondering when the Santa Shout Out will be.
“They look forward to it,” he said.
Prior to the arrival of Santa & Mrs. Claus along with elves and “the Grinch,” a children’s choir from the Marie Rose Music School performed for those gathered outdoors.
Santa Shout Out connects families with Santa Claus
By Ron Giofu