Macy's Union Square Traditions Derailed as Santa Takes a Break This Holiday Season
In a shocking turn of events, Macy's Union Square in San Francisco will not feature the jolly old man himself this holiday season for the first time in decades. The absence of Santa Claus has left many Bay Area families heartbroken, who had been anticipating an annual visit from the iconic figure.
According to Macy's, the decision was made as part of a nationwide tour where Santa will be visiting stores and communities he hasn't had a chance to appear in before. While this may be seen as a way for Santa to expand his reach, many locals are pining for the traditional holiday experience that comes with seeing him at Union Square.
"It's like Christmas without Santa," said Yvonne Fletcher, who lives in Bayview and has been taking her grandkids to see Santa every year. "I was looking forward to it all year, and now it's just not going to happen."
Briseyda, a local resident, echoed similar sentiments, stating that the absence of Santa is a blow to tradition. "Christmas is all about traditions and memories," she said. "Santa brings everyone together. It's heartbreaking to think that this holiday season will be different without him."
Lisa Sammon, who took her daughter Emily to see Santa every year for over a decade, shared a poignant memory of the experience. "We would take her to see Santa, the same Santa, for a good dozen years," she said, fighting back tears.
While some may view this as an opportunity for Santa to explore new locations and make more appearances in different parts of the country, others are disappointed that the holiday magic won't be available at Union Square. However, it's worth noting that Macy's will still offer other festive activities, including the SF SPCA Holiday Windows and the Great Tree presented by Ripple.
As for "Spun Santa," a rotating installation that has been part of the Union Square festivities in recent years, he is excited to continue spreading holiday cheer to locals and visitors alike. "I love San Francisco and I love people from all over the world," he said. "I would like everyone to come enjoy Union Square."
In a shocking turn of events, Macy's Union Square in San Francisco will not feature the jolly old man himself this holiday season for the first time in decades. The absence of Santa Claus has left many Bay Area families heartbroken, who had been anticipating an annual visit from the iconic figure.
According to Macy's, the decision was made as part of a nationwide tour where Santa will be visiting stores and communities he hasn't had a chance to appear in before. While this may be seen as a way for Santa to expand his reach, many locals are pining for the traditional holiday experience that comes with seeing him at Union Square.
"It's like Christmas without Santa," said Yvonne Fletcher, who lives in Bayview and has been taking her grandkids to see Santa every year. "I was looking forward to it all year, and now it's just not going to happen."
Briseyda, a local resident, echoed similar sentiments, stating that the absence of Santa is a blow to tradition. "Christmas is all about traditions and memories," she said. "Santa brings everyone together. It's heartbreaking to think that this holiday season will be different without him."
Lisa Sammon, who took her daughter Emily to see Santa every year for over a decade, shared a poignant memory of the experience. "We would take her to see Santa, the same Santa, for a good dozen years," she said, fighting back tears.
While some may view this as an opportunity for Santa to explore new locations and make more appearances in different parts of the country, others are disappointed that the holiday magic won't be available at Union Square. However, it's worth noting that Macy's will still offer other festive activities, including the SF SPCA Holiday Windows and the Great Tree presented by Ripple.
As for "Spun Santa," a rotating installation that has been part of the Union Square festivities in recent years, he is excited to continue spreading holiday cheer to locals and visitors alike. "I love San Francisco and I love people from all over the world," he said. "I would like everyone to come enjoy Union Square."