Eight years ago, as he was driving through Woodbury, Santa stumbled across the new Woodbury Lakes shopping center. Immediately hooked by the mall’s charm and outdoor appeal, he continues to make annual trips back to our local establishment. Woodbury Magazine goes beyond the beard in this exclusive Santa Claus interview.
What is a typical day like for you at Woodbury Lakes?
I’m the strolling Santa; I walk in and out of the stores, interacting with families and children along the way. Every few hours, I stop by the tree in the courtyard to give everyone a guaranteed place where they can find me.
What’s the best thing about being Santa?
Seeing children’s eyes light up and get really big. Then there’s the beard …
Favorite cookie?
Most people like chocolate chip cookies, but I like chocolate chip cookies with nuts.
Most unusual gift request?
I had a boy ask me if I could go back into the toilet and grab his flushed goldfish so that he could have a proper burial for it.
What do you do in your spare time?
I give cars an identity through car-detailing. Hot rods, Chevy’s: I like them low and long.
Favorite part of your costume?
I carry a stuffed teddy bear around with me named “Gruffy,” who also wears a Santa suit.
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See Santa sing and light the holiday tree, plus enjoy fireworks set to holiday music, free craft projects and a cookie decoration station at the Woodbury Lakes Holiday Open House on November 23. Free. 4-9 p.m. Woodbury Lakes, 9020 Hudson Road; 651.251.9500; woodburylakes.com
