What makes this Santa Claus special?

For years, Wichitans have been able to visit and take photos with Santa Claus at places such as Bradley Fair and Towne East Square.

The west side has been a bit left out, but not this year, said Sara Fleming, communications manager at NewMarket Square at 21st and Maize Road.

Santa and his real-life reindeer will be at the main entrance of the shopping center from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Sunday. Cocoa Dolce, a NewMarket Square tenant, will be serving free hot chocolate.

“This is actually the first Santa we’ve ever had,” Fleming said.

She said she also happens to be the first communications manager for the center.

“They hired me to bring marketing initiatives here.”

She said there will be more to come.

“We have a lot of exciting things planned for 2025.”

She’s not giving any hints about those yet.

Fleming said it’s all about making NewMarket a good community partner.

And with Santa, bringing good cheer as well.

“Visiting Santa really is a cherished tradition,” Fleming said.

“We want to bring the magic of Christmas to the west side.”