It’s a sure sign that the holiday season is well underway when a jolly visitor from the north arrives at an East Texas mall.
Santa’s arrival also fuels hopes that the Longview mall will once again become a popular stop for shoppers. The packed parking lot was a good sign for organizers, as this is the first part of a string of events for the mall.
“We are expecting a big year, and actually if yesterday tells us anything, we had an amazing day,” said Mall Manager Kelly Overby.
A crowd gathered early Saturday morning to see Mister Kringle arrive on top of a fire engine and take his place at center court to greet kids of all ages.
“Parents get so much out of this experience. We’ll see tears in their eyes, tears of joy. These are traditions that last a lifetime,” said the bearded one in the red suit.
“I love it, and I love giving because that’s what Christmas is all about: giving and making others happy. I love shopping, buying Christmas gifts for my grand babies and everyone,” said Hallsville shopper Paula Gill.
Malls have been impacted by the Covid era and the popular practice of online shopping.
“We need people to come out and continue to shop. The Longview mall has been here since 1978, and we want to keep it here. Several of our stores are locally owned and franchised locally, and just know that when you shop local, you are supporting your community,” Overby said.
Source : KITV
