CHARLOTTE, N.C. — You can tell by the giant tree outside the Northlake Mall it's almost Christmas season. This year, Northlake Mall officials are promising on their website an unforgettable journey to see Santa.
But for many parents and shoppers, what's unforgettable is the price tag to see the man in red.
"Christmas is giving, not taking," Wakim Brice, a Northlake Mall shopper, said.
The new "Santa Ultimate Adventure" experience at the Northlake Mall includes photos, a virtual sleigh ride and characters from "Shrek."
But many feel the prices are the ogre. If parents don't pay between $35 and $75, kids won't be able to sit on Santa's lap.
A Northlake Mall official told Channel Nine shoppers can sit visit Santa for free if his schedule is clear from the adventure experience. This policy is not listed on Northlake Mall's website.
Many shoppers believe that's unfair.
"It would price out low-income families," Brice said.
Personal photography is also prohibited.
According to the website, the experience "magically combines the age-old tradition of the holidays with some ultra-modern technological wizardry to deliver a visual marvel that will delight children of all ages."
Some people worry parents will be discouraged by the experience's price tag.
"If you can't afford to have your child sit on Santa's lap you're kind of ruining their Christmas right now," Lauren Williams, a shopper at Northlake Mall said.
Statement from Northlake:
"Thanks for your inquiry about the Ultimate Santa Adventure at Northlake Mall. There are several options for families interested in seeing Santa. One option is that families can walk up anytime. If Santa's schedule is open, they can see Santa for free and purchase photos if they'd like. The other option is for families to make a reservation online to see Santa at a time that is convenient for them. This option includes a charge for the photo package."
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