Macy's Santaland is making some changes for its 2020 celebration

One of New Yorkers' beloved holiday traditions is making some changes for the 2020 season. 

Since 1977, families have flocked to Macy's in Herald Square to venture through the whimsical, festive Santaland, and of course, snag some one-on-one time with the man in the red suit. This year, things will look a little different: From Nov 27 through Dec 24, Macy’s Santaland will be transformed into an interactive, virtual experience, ultimately bringing a little piece of NYC Christmas magic to homes everywhere. 

“At Macy’s, the safety of our customers and colleagues is paramount,” Susan Tercero, Macy’s vice president of Branded Entertainment, said in a statement. “To replicate the magical experience of visiting Macy’s Santaland for children and their families, we will shift to a virtual engagement this year. "Macy’s is delighted to have found a way to ensure even more families can enjoy this treasured experience safely during this festive time of the year.”

Grab a cup of cocoa, put on some Christmas songs for kids and venture to the North Pole from the comfort of home via Macy’s Santaland at Home. (It's free!)

Here's how to make a visit: 

• Go to macys.com/santaland and allow moms, dads or adult guardians to enable all permissions. 
• Join the elves, who are your guide on the journey. Up to three children can enjoy the customized experience at the same time. 
• Play interactive games and take a gander at Santa's village and workshop while you're on your North Pole-bound train.
• Stay until the end of the event, where a digital interactive video with Santa will allow kids to read off their wish lists and pose for a selfie.

Not only will other cities get a taste of how NYC celebrates the holidays, but we Gothamites can experience traditions from different locales: The Santaland website will highlight Macy’s Center City in Philadelphia, which hosts Dickens’ Village and the Christmas Light Show. Plus, Kris Kringle himself will appear on Macy's social media handles throughout the season for some fun surprises. 

Sure, things are a little different, but the show will go on. See you in the North Pole!

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