The traditional Christmas visit to Santa’s grotto at Arnotts has been scrapped over Covid-19 fears.
The department store in Dublin yesterday confirmed the blow to young and old across the country.
It said: “Unlike other years, Santa will not be taking up residence in his grotto in Arnotts as he has a concern for the health and safety of the boys and girls who come to see him due to the risk of Covid.
“However, Santa will send messages from the North Pole to everyone at Arnotts during the Christmas period, including a very special story time.
“He is delighted the magic of Christmas at Arnotts will still come to life through our amazing Christmas windows and our We Believe campaign.”
Children can still post their letters in the store, which expects to open its doors on Wednesday, or by email at santa@arnotts.ie.
Shopping centre Santas have mostly been forced online this year, with Zoom meetings for families.
Hamish Urquhart, who runs Partywizz.com and has three men in red on his books, said: “There’s quite a lot of innovating and creativity at the moment.”
Entertainment firm Genie Mackers is also offering messenger elf door visits who can take a letter to the man with the white beard.
Santa hire can cost between €150 per hour and €235 for 90 minutes involving magic tricks.
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