‘Get this place rocking’: Santa Claus returns to Portage Place

Portage Place may be undergoing a major redevelopment, but it didn’t stop Santa Claus from returning for photos with families.

The demolition of the Portage Place’s glass atrium couldn’t stop Santa Claus from popping into the old downtown mall for a visit.

True North’s $650 million redevelopment of the old shopping centre is well underway. Crews have been working to take down the glass atrium, giving Winnipeggers a nearly unobstructed view down Edmonton Street for the first time in decades.

As crews worked outside, jolly old St. Nick decided to visit the mall once again to celebrate the project.

“Yeah, get this place rocking with some beautiful community vibes,” he told reporters. “We team up with True North and make something happen here. Bring in the community spread some love and joy.”

A spokesperson for True North Sports and Entertainment said this Santa Claus is Portage Place’s original, making an annual stop for 27 years. That tradition came to a close last year when True North purchased Portage Place.

Santa will be sticking around until Dec. 23. Photos will be free for everyone who brings nonperishable food or new warm winter clothing donations.

Santa will be available for photos on Dec. 15 to 19 from 3 to 6 p.m. and Dec. 20 to 23 from 1 to 6 p.m.