Byron to host free Santa event on Dec. 12

The Adventure Safari Network is hosting a free Santa for a Saturday event in Byron on Dec. 12. The gathering runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Santa’s Workshop. Participants will enjoy a hayride through the forest to see reindeer. They will also get a free electronic photo with Santa and make s’mores over an open fire. Small crafts are available for children.

Santa for this event is the chief executive officer of a Wisconsin hospital. He is accompanied by his wife, who plays Mrs. Claus. Their daughter sometimes attends as an elf. The couple enjoys interacting with the children during the visit. Families receive the photos of the children with Santa and a group family picture by email a few days after the event. There is no charge for the digital images.

The event operates on a scheduled basis to manage crowds. Families will receive the exact address and their specific time slot upon registration. A news release stated that registering early is advisable because the event is expected to be popular. Scheduling the hayrides and Santa visits in advance helps prevent long lines in cool weather conditions.

To register, families must email Gary@AdventureSafariNetwork.com. The message should include the names of all attendees and the ages of the children. It is also helpful to include a fact or two about each child that only Santa would know. During the visit, Santa checks the naughty and nice list and shares a brief story about each child. This personal touch shows the kids that he is watching them.

Registrants must also provide an email address and a phone number. The organization sends a confirmation email within 24 hours. If the available slots fill up, new registrants are placed on a waiting list. This list is used if someone cancels a reservation. Early registration is the best way to secure a time for the family.