He’s back! For the 13th time Santa Claus arrived today at the Indianapolis International Airport (IND) in true Santa style – hurrying across the tarmac on a firetruck eager to greet more than 1,200 Hoosier families and children gathered in the Indy airport’s Civic Plaza.
The Indianapolis airport is Santa’s traditional location to make his first practice run each year, kicking off his global tour to spread holiday cheer and goodwill around the world.
“It’s that kind spirit that draws me to the Indianapolis International Airport each year,” said Santa. “Indy airport employees are always at the top of my Nice list because they deliver exceptional customer service and that special holiday magic year-round.”
Families and children who attended today’s sold-out event enjoyed meeting holiday favorites like elves on stilts, the Grinch and the Sugar Plum Fairy. They also had their photos taken with Santa, created ornaments, wrapped care packages to benefit Indiana USO military families, enjoyed story time with the airport fire and police team members, wrote letters to Santa, and participated in other free, festive activities.
“Santa’s endorsement means the world to us, but more importantly it’s an honor to have him return year over year to bring his world-class holiday cheer to our Hoosier families and children who love this event,” said Indianapolis Airport Authority Executive Director Mario Rodriguez.
Throughout the holiday season, passengers will be able to enjoy the decorations throughout the terminal or snap a photo next to the – NDY sign – with the holiday tree providing a festive backdrop – as travelers take off for their holiday travels.
The sounds of good cheer can also be heard throughout the terminal in December with special holiday music and performances by local musicians and school groups.
Travelers will be able to enjoy special performances daily from Dec.13 – Dec. 26 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. with MGS DJs playing travelers’ favorite holiday tunes and local musicians performing live for all to enjoy. Whether you like Latin jazz, country, R&B, or coffeehouse vibes, there’s something for everyone with this year’s enchanting line-up. Featured performances include the Castlewood Singers, klezmer music from Indy Klez, Pavel & Direct Contact, Jan Aldridge Clark and national finalists from the Young Hoosier Pianists.
“It’s a joy to have so many Hoosier families join us again to watch Santa make his annual practice run and enjoy the airport’s largest community event of the year together,” said Megan Carrico, IAA senior director of public affairs. “It’s the perfect start to the holiday season and a joyful note of what’s still to come in holiday celebrations at the Indy airport.”
Visit IND.com or the airport’s Facebook page for a complete lineup of the holiday music.
