How one local Michiana store will make pictures with Santa work during a pandemic

ELKHART COUNTY, Ind.— There is a long-standing tradition of waiting in line for hours just to sit on Santa’s lap to tell him what you want for Christmas. However, this year, that won't be the case.

There have already been cancelations for meet and greets with Santa throughout Michiana, we saw it in April with the Easter Bunny, and this holiday is no different. 

But at Linton's Enchanted Garden in Elkhart, the owner, Mark Linton, is trying to keep the long family tradition alive with a few modifications. Masks can only be taken off for the picture but must be worn at all other times, and guests may not touch or hug Mr. and Mrs. Claus.  Linton said guests are required to check-in at the customer service counter when they arrive for their photo.

“Each party or family will be given a ticket and then we invite them to stroll around our winter wonderland and continue socially distancing, there’s absolutely no standing in lines and we will page them when it is there time for the picture,” Linton said.

After each picture, the bench will be wiped down and disinfected for the next group. Besides bringing a camera, guests need to also bring with them one -non-perishable food item for each person in the photo.  The food items will be donated to Pantries and Kitchens United for Elkhart County.

Pictures with Santa run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Schedule

November:  14, 15, 21, 22, 27,28, 29

December:  5, 6, 12,13, 19,20, 23, 24