By helicopter tradition, Santa to arrive at The Preserve

In a special interview to the Hoover Sun, Santa Claus told the paper he’s gearing up for his annual trek to The Preserve on Dec. 14. The Breakfast with Santa event is free and open to Preserve residents, as well as their friends and family. Festivities begin at 8 a.m., with Santa expected to arrive by 10 a.m.. 

As is tradition, Santa told the Sun he will visit with every boy and girl who attends, no matter how long it takes for each child to have their own Santa moment.

“Some of them bring me letters, some like to tell me a story,” he said. “I love visiting with each one of them.”

Sharing one of his favorite memories, Santa described the place he has in his heart for the visitors with special needs who attend the event.

“Several children who have attended before have special needs, and I just love to see them,” he said. “This is one of my favorite activities, and it’s important to me that each child has as much time with me as they would like. We never rush anyone.” 

Last year, nearly 200 children watched Santa fly into The Preserve via helicopter; they were joined by approximately 300 more (parents, friends and neighbors) for what has become one of the neighborhood’s most beloved holiday traditions. 

The Breakfast with Santa tradition began in the neighborhood’s formative years, started by Preserve Jazz Festival co-founder Jason Henderson and a few others when their children were quite young. Since then, and with a little help from his elves, Santa has raised the bar every year, even flying in via helicopter.

“We have a great neighborhood and they really get into all the holidays,” said resident Anna Fowler, describing the event’s flawless execution, down to a “pancake team” she describes as a well-oiled machine. “They make pancakes [to feed hundreds] while drinking mimosas and Bloody Marys –they are fantastic!”

Neighbors turn up wearing anything from their holiday finest to their holiday flannels. From primped up to pajamas, all are welcome. All neighbors bring a covered dish, with categories assigned based on house number to ensure a balanced spread for all. 

Best of all? At least for residents, it’s one-stop holiday magic. 

In the words of Fowler, “By noon you have had breakfast, seen Santa, had pictures and never left the neighborhood.”