Preparations for Santa’s arrival begin Monday at 10 a.m. in the Wyoming National Apartment building. Santa himself will be present to ensure everything is just right for his photo debut this Saturday. Santa will oversee members of downtown organizations as they set up his 12-foot Christmas tree with all the trimmings, including lights and garland. Santa will have his very own corner on the first floor in the community room by the windows for all passersby to see.

This is the third consecutive year for Santa to visit the children of Casper for free photos downtown. Parents enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Santa’s friendly elves are on hand to develop photos, serve holiday treats and help make the experience enjoyable and efficient.

Organizers are particularly excited about this year’s very visible and easily assessable location, which is right next to the parking garage. Free hourly parking is available for everyone visiting downtown through January 3, compliments of the Downtown Development Authority.

Participating in “decking the hall” on Monday at 10 a.m. for Santa’s arrival are DDA staff Tina Wulf and Debbie Ludiker, Downtown Merchants & Professionals Association president Lory Palm, DMPA member Sarah Olson of the Casper Journal, Santa photographers Shelby Garner and Liz Roth of the Casper Star-Tribune and Wyoming National Apartment manager Angie Smart.

Santa will be available for photos every Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. until Christmas. Santa has promised to join the fun for Downtown’s Holiday Madness on Thursday, Dec. 10 from 5 to 9 p.m., too. Children and families will receive one free photo of themselves with Santa. Photo packages will also be available. Every child will receive a holiday treat while they wait and a candy cane after sharing their wish list with Santa.

So, mark your calendar and plan to join Santa and his elves for some old fashioned downtown holiday spirit, and make it a tradition.