Four adult reindeer and two babies were pulling his sleigh, and Santa was also accompanied by Mrs. Claus as he arrived at The Malls, where local people and Christmas music greeted him.
A further cast of characters, including a huge snowman, a man walking on stilts and many of Santa’s helpers also took part. It is an annual event in Basingstoke, but the attendance of over 34,000 made this year’s the biggest yet.
It gave local children the opportunity to meet Father Christmas and have a chat with him – as well as giving him letters they had written. The best of these are set to be rewarded with prizes.
The events coordinator and property administrator at The Malls, Sue Harris, told the Basingstoke Gazette that:
“It was absolutely packed. It’s traditional and brings children’s attention back to what Christmas is about.”
The event also saw balloons handed out by Shopmobility volunteers, while roasted chestnuts and further festive-themed foods were sold at stalls. There were also Christmas gifts on sale for those still doing their festive shopping.
Shops based within The Malls can always turn to printers producing Holiday Cards in Basingstoke; if they want to make sure they have enough Christmas cards.
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