‘Tis the season to make magical memories at Metropolis at Metrotown! Amid a backdrop of festive décor, BC’s biggest shopping centre is celebrating the season with several charitable initiatives, including a community toy drive, charity gift wrap, and – for the first time ever – opportunities for shoppers to meet multiple versions of Santa Claus.
Starting November 13, visitors to Metropolis at Metrotown can push the boundaries of their imagination with a collection of distinct Santa experiences. “Santa Claus” is so much more than one person – he lives in our minds and memories, and because we are all special and unique, our Santa might look very different than someone else’s. To support our diverse perspectives of Santa, Metropolis at Metrotown will host a series of Santas, including Father Christmas, the classic Santa of children’s storybooks – jolly and plump, snow-white beard, and a twinkle in his eye; Global Santa, who represents the many versions of Christmas that exist among families; and Kris Kringle, whose energy and charm is matched by a boundless enthusiasm for the holidays. All of the Santas will appear throughout the shopping centre on select dates until December 23. Between December 27 and 30, shoppers can also meet Tropical Santa, who plans to pop by the centre during his post-holiday travels.
Holidaymakers seeking a memento of their time with Santa can enjoy photo sessions with all four Santas, who are available on select dates. Skip the line to see your favourite Santa, and choose from a variety of packages (including print and digital options), by booking ahead on the Metropolis at Metrotown website. Partial proceeds from all Santa photos will be donated to Burnaby Christmas Bureau, which supports families and individuals in need within the Burnaby community.
Additional holiday happenings at Metropolis at Metrotown include charity gift wrap (December 1-24), where you can beautify your holiday presents while supporting Burnaby Neighbourhood House; and a toy drive (December 9) hosted by the Burnaby Firefighters Charitable Society, where you can channel the spirit of Santa by donating toys to local families through the Burnaby Christmas Bureau. Meanwhile, shoppers can breeze through their holiday gift lists with over 330 stores offering fashion, electronics, homeware, beauty and more.
“We’re thrilled to introduce a new way to experience Santa and the magic of the holidays this year at Metropolis at Metrotown,” said Amanda Chung, marketing manager. “We want our offerings to be as diverse as our shoppers, and that includes multiple versions of Santa that expand our ideas of who Santa is, what he can be, and how he fits into people’s unique holiday traditions. And, in the spirit of Santa, we are pleased to continue our tradition of helping families in need with the generous support of our community and shoppers.”
Metropolis at Metrotown offers free parking and easy Skytrain access, and is open Monday to Saturday, 10am – 9pm; and Sundays 11am – 7pm. Special holiday hours apply November 24 (8am – 10pm); December 24 (10am – 6pm); December 26 (8am – 10pm); and December 31 (10am – 6pm). The centre will be closed on Christmas Day. To book your visit with the Santa of your choosing, or browse charitable initiatives and other holiday offerings, visit www.metropolisatmetrotown.com.
