The Town of Farragut officially kicks off the holiday season today (11/26) when Mayor Ron Williams throws the switch on 68,000 lights in Founders Park at Campbell Station. In recognition of this annual event, which includes the official opening of Santa’s mailbox, I’m interviewing Jingles, Santa’s chief elf. Jingles helped answer Santa’s mail last year, and she, along with an army of elf helpers, is excited to serve again this year. Remember, parents, that letters with a return address may get a response!
Farragut Insider: So, Jingles, is everyone at the North Pole ready for December?
Jingles: We think it will all come together, but the lists keep getting longer, and our staff is lean. Budget cuts, you know.
Farragut Insider: I can relate. But you’ll still make time to read everyone’s wish lists, right?
Jingles: It’s my favorite part of the job! Some letters are sweet, and some are just plain funny. Would you like for me to share some excerpts from last year’s batch?
Farragut Insider: Please!
Jingles: One of my favorites had a list of 42 items. But most were small, like lots of Nerds and marshmallows. Other funny requests included “a box that I can fit inside” and “more eggnog – but only I can drink it.” Some of my favorites are from children who are too small to write. They are basically scribbles with footnotes from Mom or Dad that say “ice cream” or “presents.”
Farragut Insider: I’m sure the letters are funny and touching. Do adults send letters to Santa, too?
Jingles: Yes. Most are humorous, like one that asked for a new toaster oven, $46 to help cover rent and a car for his girlfriend so she could visit. It also included a postscript asking Santa to send a sack of reindeer poop to a former boss. Hee hee.
Farragut Insider: Maybe those letters are intended to entertain the elves.
Jingles: They certainly do, although there were a handful of letters from grownups who had real needs. That’s why Santa wants everyone to remember to share during the holidays.
Farragut Insider: That’s a good reminder. Is there anything else you want us to know about Light the Park?
Jingles: Countdown to Light the Park is 5-7 p.m. on Nov. 26. There will be musical entertainment and vendors, and Santa will stop by! The lights come on around 6:30 p.m., and parking is available at the town’s future community center at 239 Jamestowne Blvd. and across the street from the park at Westgate Christian Fellowship. The lights stay on until 10 p.m. every evening except Christmas Day (so as to not distract the reindeer) through Tuesday, Jan. 1. I recommend a hot meal from a Farragut eatery or shopping at one of Farragut’s fine retail establishments before visiting the park!
Farragut Insider: Good suggestion, Jingles. Thanks for sharing your insights with us.
Be sure to check out Light the Park, Celebrate the Season and other upcoming events here.
Wendy Smith coordinates marketing and public relations for the Town of Farragut.