See Santa this year behind a 'magic shield' after getting your temperature taken

Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's will be lining up Santa meet-and-greets this year, but things will look a little bit ... well, like 2020.

Posted 2:00 a.m. Nov 5, 2020 — Updated 2:00 a.m. Nov 5, 2020

Sarah LIndenfeld Hall

, Go Ask Mom editor

Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's will be lining up Santa meet-and-greets this year, but things will look a little bit ... well, like 2020.

Instead of sitting on Santa's lap, kids can greet a face shield-wearing Claus behind Plexiglass, but only after they get their temperature taken. It's an admirable effort to provide families with a little fun and holiday cheer during these unprecedented times.

“This year has been incredibly difficult for so many kids and families,” said Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris in a press release. “With countless activities canceled and many families dealing with added stress, we feel it’s more important than ever to provide some free Christmas magic and help safely create cherished holiday memories.”

Santa will arrive at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's across the country,, including here in the Triangle, on Nov. 7. He'll remain through Dec. 24. Families who visit will get a free 4X6 photo, a customized digital video and holiday craft activity kits. But, first, here are the rules, according to the press release:

Free Digital Reservations: Advance digital reservations are required for all guests and can be made online. Spots are limited to allow appropriate physical distancing and additional cleaning. Follow the links for Bass Pro Shop and Cabela's to make reservations.

Temperature Screening: All families and team members will complete temperature screening with a non-contact thermometer prior to entering Santa’s Wonderland.

Magic Santa Shield: A glare-free clear protective barrier will be in place between Santa and families at all times to allow for a contactless experience. The shield is cleaned and sanitized between each visit.

Physical Distancing: Families will stand by in a designated area away from other shoppers with fun winter wonderland-themed floor decals and signage to ensure a safe distance.

Santa’s Sanitation Squad: Santa’s team of elves will clean all surfaces between each visit and frequently ensure all safety measures are being implemented correctly.

Face coverings: All team members throughout the store are required to wear face coverings. Customer requirements vary by location based on local public health guidelines. (In North Carolina, everybody age 5 and up is required to wear a face mask.)

Suggest A Correction