Skip to content

Santa Claus heading south for story time

Santa Claus is taking time out of his busy schedule to relax with families for story time in Okotoks’ library. The Okotoks Public Library has invited the jolly man from the North Pole to read bedtime stories during a drop-in event Dec. 6 from 6:30 p.

Santa Claus is taking time out of his busy schedule to relax with families for story time in Okotoks’ library.

The Okotoks Public Library has invited the jolly man from the North Pole to read bedtime stories during a drop-in event Dec. 6 from 6:30 p.m. until 8 p.m.

Michelle Walther, children’s department library clerk, said last year’s story time saw about 50 people in attendance.

“We have a great turnout,” she said. “People love it. The kids sit on his knee and get their picture taken. It’s such a fun event.”

Those wishing to attend can arrive in their pajamas and snuggle in as they listen to some of Claus’ favourite Christmas stories, create a holiday craft and enjoy a snack, said Walther.

“It’s just fun to wear your pajamas out in public,” she said. “It gets them cozy. Some even bring their blankets and just get right into it.”

The library staff sets Claus up beside the Christmas tree and he reads a few stories to the children and their families.

Among his favourites is The Night Before Christmas.

“The little kids love coming in and hearing me tell stories,” said Claus. “The stories are fun to listen to and I like to put a fun spin on it when I do read them. I’ve been doing this for a few years now.”

Claus said he enjoys visiting Okotoks for its small town feel.

“In the bigger cities there is this hustle and bustle and tons of crowds,” he said. “This is like an old-fashioned Christmas where you can come in your jammies and have some treats and just relax. I can’t wait to see all the kids and say, ‘merry Christmas’ to everybody.”

push icon
Be the first to read breaking stories. Enable push notifications on your device. Disable anytime.
No thanks