Visits to Father Christmas have changed a bit over the past few years.
Santa has frequently been forced to hide behind a desk rather than welcome children onto his lap in order to stop the spread of COVID-19.
However, back in the US, things are beginning to resemble how they were prior to the outbreak.
According to one website that lets retailers book Father Christmas appearances, demand has increased by 30% from the previous year.
However, there have been difficulties because since the epidemic started, the firm has lost 15% of its performers to retirement or death.
Santas are now allowed to choose whether or not to wear a mask across the nation, and in many locations, it is no longer a mandate.
However, there are several exceptions to the norm. A table will continue to stand between tourists’ awe and Father Christmas at Macy’s famed flagship shop in New York.
The creator of HireSanta.com, Mitch Allen, claims that his performers would make up to $12,000 (£10,000) throughout the holiday season.
His company is also accepting demands for Santas who are more diverse, such as those who are female, black, deaf, or Spanish-speaking.
When she made her acting debut in her early 20s, Melissa Rickard, now 48, remarked, “I haven’t been caught yet by the kids or, with one exception, by the parents.
In a way, it’s the highest compliment to have a child who can’t tell I’m a woman because it means I’m doing Santa justice. My hubby finds it hilarious.”
After covering the cost of her fuel, Ms. Rickard charges $175 (£145) each hour, with the remaining funds going to charity.
Millions of kids will be overjoyed to meet Santa this Christmas, and it will be a two-way street.
Chris Landtroop from the Santa agency Cherry Hill Programs said, “I can’t even begin to express how excited we are to see everyone’s smiles at all locations this season without anything covering up those beautiful faces.”