Santa will return to Bolivar Dec. 16 and 23
The Santa House in Bolivar was remodeled this year to create an updated atmosphere. The house is located at Canal and Cherry streets.
Each year in Bolivar, Santa and Mrs. Claus ride into town in a fire truck for the Christmas on the Canal event organized by the Bolivar Main Street Association. Not everyone can make it out to see Santa that day, so BMSA has decided to bring him back for two appearances.
On Saturday, Dec. 16 and Saturday, Dec. 23, Santa will be stationed in the newly remodeled Christmas House at Canal and Cherry streets. Kids can pop inside and see Santa and Mrs. Claus from 3-5 p.m. both days.
The annual Christmas on the Canal event takes place the second Saturday in November and includes visits with Santa, train rides, a parade, hayrides, music and other festivities.
“Because Christmas on the Canal happens early in the holiday season, we decided to bring Santa and Mrs. Claus back a little closer to Christmas,” said Bob Smith, president of the BMSA.
Children who visit can hop on Santa’s lap and whisper their Christmas wishes in his ear or bring him a list of the gifts they hope to receive. All kids will get a candy cane to take home.
The Santa House was given a total makeover this year by the BMSA. A deck was added outside, and the interior was transformed, complete with a fireplace.
Smith said he hopes people who bring their children to visit Santa will stick around and see what Bolivar has to offer. “We invite them to check out our restaurants and shops we have downtown,” he said. “The purpose of BMSA is to bring people into town to see what’s available, and anytime we can have people patronize our local businesses, it’s a good thing.”