Before his all-night trek around the world to deliver gifts to boys and girls, Santa Claus has been taking up residence on a rooftop in Bellefontaine, with nightly appearances this week and last week to spread cheer to the young and young-at-heart.
The live Santa has returned to a residence on Woodglen Drive following his first stint there last year. He has enjoyed greeting guests for two hours each evening from his rooftop perch, weather permitting.
For families who stop by to see the North Pole resident, they will be treated to a festive scene with brightly-colored Christmas lights decorating the residence, along with holiday inflatables. Then when they peer through the trees, they will see the jolly elf himself waving up on the roof, calling down with a hearty “Ho, ho ho!”
A father-and-son pair, Dan and Derek Robb, have worked behind-the-scenes to make the Santa’s visits possible, which continues for its final night this year from 6 to 8 p.m. today on Christmas Eve.
Derek said his family came up with the idea last year during the pandemic, when they had more time at home. They wanted to join together to surprise their friends and neighbors and share the magic of the season.
“It worked out that I was home from college last year, and we were able to do this,” the 2019 Bellefontaine High School graduate said Tuesday night. “Now I’m home for break from college again, and we’ve been able to share this experience with even more people this year.
“Last year, we had about 20 cars stop by. This year, we’ve shared a bit on social media and the word has gotten around, and we’ve had about 220 cars stop by this time.
“It’s been so fun to see everyone’s reactions and the kids and adults who get to enjoy the visit. It’s unique to see a real Santa up on a roof.”
Most recent December evenings have provided good weather for Santa Claus to visit in the outdoor setting, and one night, there was a light dusting of snow, which “made for a really pretty scene,” Derek said.
Children who stop to meet Santa also are treated to candy canes and the chance to check out a cozy fireplace scene projected on the residence. They are invited to share with Santa any of their Christmas wishes.
To find out more about Santa’s evening visits on Woodglen Drive, search for “Santa in Whispering Pines” page on Facebook.