Santa Claus won’t be coming to Coquitlam Centre for pictures this year.
Today (Wednesday), the mall announced on its website that its Christmas public events — including Photos with Santa, in the lower court — will be cancelled because of physical distancing measures due to the global pandemic.
“While we regret having to cancel these activities, Coquitlam Centre is committed to the health and safety of our retailers, guests and communities,” the website reads.
The decision by Morguard Investments comes as other mall operators across Canada are also stopping holiday events to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Cadillac Fairview, which oversees Pacific Centre and Richmond Centre in B.C., is suspending Santa experiences at its 19 shopping centres across Canada.
"While we know this may be disappointing for families who look forward to this annual tradition, we firmly believe this is the best decision," said Craig Flannagan, Cadillac Fairview's vice-president of marketing, in a statement.
Meanwhile, Lougheed Mall in Burnaby is having a holiday photo booth until Nov. 29.
