Every year, families from all over the country bring their kids to shopping malls during the holiday season to get their photos taken with Santa. The mall Santa photos have become a tradition just about everywhere, but here in North Texas, some traditions are about to change. NorthPark Center in Dallas recently announced their Santa will be retiring the red robe and beard after 32 years.
Dr. Carl Anderson began appearing as Santa Claus at NorthPark Center back in 1989, and has returned to the mall every year since. The child psychologist lives in Austin, but would make the trip up to DFW for his seasonal job every year, not only taking photos with kids but also helping to raise funds for Children’s Health by hosting breakfast with Santa. “I am so appreciative to have been a part of their holidays and their life - that they treasure our memories and experiences together as fondly as I do,” said Anderson.
According to NBC DFW, the mall is planning a new Santa experience for the 2022 holiday season. Of course, many will miss Anderson after years seeing him in the chair. The next mall Santa definitely has some big shoes to fill.
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