NEW: Watertown organizations announce revival of “Santaland”
October 25, 2023
WATERTOWN, S.D.–The holiday season is upon us and the Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce, Watertown Development Company, Watertown Area Community Foundation, and Visit Watertown are thrilled to announce the return of a beloved tradition – Santaland! This festive event has been a holiday staple for locals and visitors for years, but has missed an entire generation of children. This year it’s back and better than ever.
Santaland will be taking place in the heart of Downtown Watertown. Located in the Commerce Center building at the corner of Kemp & Broadway on the second floor, visitors will be greeted by the sight of beautifully decorated Christmas scenes including Santa’s office; where the naughty and nice list are curated, the toy factory, Mrs. Claus’ bakery, and of course, the jolly old man himself, Santa Claus. Children and adults alike will be able to sit with Santa and share their Christmas wishes and dreams with him.
Watertown Chamber President, Tim Sheehan, expressed his excitement for the return of Santaland, stating that “this event was a staple of our community when I was a child and was always a wonderful way to bring the community together and spread holiday cheer. We are thrilled to be able to revive this beloved tradition and provide an opportunity for families to create special memories during the holiday season.”
Santaland is not just about getting a quick photo with Santa Claus; it is a complete experience that will stay with you and your family for years to come. From the moment you step inside, you will be transported to a magical winter wonderland, complete with festive decorations, scents of the season, and cheerful holiday music. Write a letter to Santa while waiting your turn to meet him and he’ll send you one in return, take a tour through the North Pole and Santa will greet your family and take the time to chat with your children and make sure they feel special. Come to Santaland prepared to make memories, not just take a snapshot.
With such a large undertaking, the Santaland Committee is seeking enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers to help us bring the magic of the season to children in our community. We are also in need of donations of good, used condition or new Christmas decor and other items to bring the Santaland experience to life. With your help, we can spread the joy and magic of Christmas to the families of the Watertown community. Sheehan added ” We’re hopeful the community will come together and support this special project. It’s going to take a lot of invested people to make it live up to the memories.”
Santaland is open to the public free of charge. While admission is free, a free-will donation will be collected and all contributions will be used to make improvements in the future.
Santaland will open on Friday, November 24th from 4:00 – 8:00pm. Santaland will be open Thursdays from 4:00 – 8:00pm, Fridays from 4:00 – 8:00pm, and Saturdays from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm through December 23rd. Don’t miss out on this magical experience that is sure to put you in the holiday spirit!
If you are interested in being a part of Santaland or have items you’d like to donate contact the Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce at [email protected] or 605-886-5814.
