Santaland Village: A Festive Favourite for Kamloops Families

How Santaland Village Came to Be

Santaland Village has its roots in Maple Ridge, where a couple first built a miniature North Pole to celebrate the holiday spirit. After the couple's retirement, the display eventually made its way to Kamloops, where Donald and Tracy Taylor adopted and expanded it into the vibrant attraction it is today. Known to many as Santa and Mrs. Claus, the Taylors have poured their creativity into this labour of love for years.

Their dedication goes beyond decoration. The Taylors continually update and enhance the display, ensuring visitors enjoy something new each year. Their work has transformed Santaland Village into a beloved fixture of Kamloops' holiday season.

A Closer Look at the Displays

Walking through Santaland Village feels like stepping into a storybook. The miniature North Pole features intricate dollhouses showcasing scenes of elf workshops, reindeer training, and Santa's bustling headquarters. Every detail, down to tiny maps and playing cards, reflects the creativity and care that goes into the displays.

One of the most heartwarming aspects of Santaland Village is its connection to the community. Many pieces in the display are donated by Kamloops residents, adding a personal touch. For instance, a lady donated a house that her late mother had built, wishing for it to bring joy to others. In honour of such contributions, tiny photos of donors are added to a wall within the dollhouses, acknowledging their generosity. The blend of craftsmanship and community involvement creates a festive and meaningful atmosphere.

Behind-the-Scenes Details

Dedication and Creativity

The magic of Santaland Village doesn't happen overnight. Donald and Tracy Taylor, the minds behind the display, spend countless hours crafting and expanding the miniature village. Every year, they add new little houses, figurines, and unique details to keep the experience fresh and engaging. The Taylors mention having fun coming up with new ideas, making the display unique.

Planning and Execution

This dedication involves meticulous planning and execution. The process is a true labour of love, from arranging the intricate scenes to maintaining the delicate pieces. While specific details about volunteer involvement or the time commitment remain private, the result is a visually stunning and immersive holiday experience that captivates visitors of all ages.

Planning for Santaland Village

As of 2024, Santaland Village will no longer be hosted at the Sahali Mall. While the exact location for this year's event has not yet been announced, the organizers are committed to continuing this cherished holiday tradition in Kamloops. Updates regarding the new venue, operating hours, and other details will be shared through official channels as they become available.

Historically, admission prices have been $25 per family for the whole experience, which includes photos with Santa, and $5 per person for those interested in viewing the display only. These rates offer families an affordable and memorable outing, and future pricing details will likely follow a similar model.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

Santaland Village has made efforts to ensure that the holiday magic is accessible to everyone. The Sensory Day, by appointment, is tailored for individuals with sensory sensitivities, offering a quieter, more controlled environment. Pet Day allows families to include their furry friends in the holiday festivities, making it a unique experience for pet lovers.

While the event's full accessibility features for 2025 have not yet been detailed, the organizers' history of inclusive initiatives suggests that such accommodations will continue. Families are encouraged to contact the organizers for specific needs or to inquire about wheelchair access and other considerations.

Booking Tips

Given the popularity of Santaland Village, early booking is highly recommended, especially for special events like Pet Day and Sensory Day. Historically, families could secure their spots through the event's official social media pages or by contacting the organizers directly. Details on the updated booking process for 2025 will likely be announced alongside venue information. Stay tuned to the official channels to reserve your spot and make the most of this festive experience.

The Role of Community in Santaland Village

The connection between Santaland Village and the Kamloops community runs deep. Local donations play a key role in shaping the displays, and the attraction has become a cherished tradition for many families. It's common to hear stories of parents who once visited as children, now bringing their kids to experience the magic.

The attraction also fosters a sense of unity during the holiday season. By bringing people together in celebration, Santaland Village reinforces the importance of community and shared traditions.

Key Takeaways

Long-standing Tradition: Santaland Village is a beloved holiday fixture in Kamloops with decades of history.

Interactive Displays: The miniature North Pole and community-donated pieces create a magical experience.

Inclusive Efforts: Sensory Day and Pet Day cater to diverse audiences.

Plan Ahead: Early booking is essential due to the event's popularity.

Evolving Location: Stay tuned for announcements about the new venue for 2025.

Keep the Magic Alive

Santaland Village is more than a holiday attraction; it's a tradition that brings families together and celebrates the joy of the season. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning for another year, the experience is sure to leave lasting memories. Make plans to visit Santaland Village this holiday season and be part of a celebration that continues to captivate Kamloops year after year.