BREAKING: Macy’s has officially announced the end of its iconic **80-year** tradition of welcoming Santa Claus to its **Union Square** store in **San Francisco, California**. This long-standing holiday event, a cherished part of the community since the late **1940s**, will be replaced by a national tour of Santa Claus visiting various stores across the country.
Macy’s officials confirmed this significant change in a statement reported by the **San Francisco Chronicle**, stating that Santa will not be available at the Union Square location this year. Instead, he will embark on a national tour following his appearance at the **Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade** in **New York**.
“This year, Macy’s Santa will not be available at our Union Square location,” the statement read. “Instead, he will be going on a national tour to visit stores and communities he hasn’t had a chance to appear in before.”
The news has left many local shoppers feeling disappointed and nostalgic. Yvonne Fletcher and her husband, Adrian, expressed their sadness, saying,
“It seems weird without Santa Claus. I can’t bring my grandkids, and that’s what we were waiting for.”
Another shopper, Briseyda, told **ABC 7 News**,
“It’s a tradition. That’s what we look forward to. It’s heartbreaking. I have kids of my own. The one thing they look forward to is Santa.”
She emphasized the importance of traditions during the holiday season, stating,
“Christmas is all about traditions and memories. Santa brings everyone together.”
Historically, families have lined up to take pictures with Santa and share their Christmas wish lists at Macy’s Union Square. This beloved tradition continued annually, except during the pandemic year of **2020**. From **1990 to 2010**, the role was famously portrayed by “Santa John,” who became a local legend.
The decision to move Santa’s appearances to a national tour reflects a broader shift in Macy’s holiday strategy, aiming to reach new audiences and create fresh experiences for families across the country. However, the emotional connection to the Union Square tradition cannot be understated, as many locals see it as a rite of passage for children.
As the holiday season approaches, shoppers are left wondering how this change will impact their celebrations. The national tour may offer new opportunities for families, but for many in San Francisco, the absence of Santa at Macy’s Union Square marks the end of an era.
What’s Next: Macy’s will provide updates on Santa’s tour schedule and locations in the coming weeks. Community reactions and local traditions will be closely monitored as families adapt to this major change in their holiday plans.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and how it impacts the festive spirit in San Francisco and beyond.
