CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Chillicothe residents that plan on visiting Santa in Yoctangee Park will have to mask up this year.
Discover Downtown Chillicothe said in a recent online post, “With the recent uptick of COVID-19 cases across the state, coupled with Santa’s very important job to provide children with Christmas goodies, we are forced to make some changes to the approach at his house this year.”
Discover Downtown Chillicothe is a consortium of local business owners, developers, and community members who have a passion for the downtown area and want to see it thrive.
According to organizers, mask-wearing will be required for all visitors inside Santa’s House. Those who do not wish to wear a mask can visit Santa outside. A six-foot distance, officials say, will be maintained.
Santa’s House is a holiday staple in Chillicothe and has been for several years. Many long-time residents still cherish those holiday pictures with Ol’ Saint Nick.
Due to COVID-19, last year’s Santa’s House became a drive-thru event.
Santa’s House opens tonight as the city of Chillicothe kicks off its downtown holiday open house. The downtown holiday festivities start at 6 p.m.