By J Romano

Santa Claus will soon lock the door to his crimson home in downtown Columbia City for the last time this Christmas season — but not before welcoming his final visitors of the year.

On Friday, December 24, 2021, from 2 to 5 p.m., Santa Claus will welcome visitors to Santa’s House on the Whitley County Courthouse lawn. This will be the last chance for Santa House to welcome visitors this year. Located at the corner of Chauncey and Van Buren Streets, Santa’s House welcomes thousands of visitors, young and old, every year and continuing a tradition that began in the 1940s.

This year there is not a scheduled photographer on site, so visitors are asked to take their own photos.

There is no cost to visit Santa’s House, however donations are critical and gratefully accepted to continue the mission of providing any child in the community with an opportunity to visit Santa.

Thanks to 2021 Santa’s House sponsors Northeastern REMC, the City of Columbia City, the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center and candy cane sponsors Joe & Charlie Wigent.