Santa Claus shops for toys at a kiosk at Broadway Square Mall in Tyler Nov. 29, 2016. 

Santa patiently and cheerfully held 1-year-old Annakate Bynum for a photo as her parents and Santa’s helpers tried to encourage a smile from the blonde toddler.

But Annakate was not interested. She didn’t seem as taken with the big guy in the red suit as her older counterparts usually are.

Annakate erupted in tears, but Santa wasn’t deterred. He offered Annakate a candy cane and spoke calmly to her before gently handing her back to her mother.

Santa has seen it all. He’s familiar with scared, crying toddlers, smiley 6-year-olds with long wish lists and even adult kids who still want to sit on his lap.

“Believe it or not, I have a lot of adults, ladies and men, brothers and sisters that will want to sit on my lap,” Santa said. “We have a lot of fun with the adults, too.”

For the next three weeks, Santa Claus can be found sitting in a large green, wingback chair near the Sears entrance in the Broadway Square Mall in Tyler, waiting for kids of all ages to come visit and share with him their wishes for this Christmas season.

Santa said there are many popular requests this year.

“Legos, especially with the girls, the hoverboard, and then bicycles and tricycles,” are among to most sought after gifts so far this year, Santa said, adding that many kids also are asking for clothes and iPhones.

Santa said he’s happy to fulfill wishes and brighten Christmastime for families he sees. Although he’s very busy this time of year, Santa said he’ll be at the mall daily throughout the Christmas season for visits and photos and also has several special events planned, such as a “Caring Santa” event from 9 to 11 a.m. Sunday for families with special needs children to have a more relaxed setting and more room to visit with Santa.

Santa also has a pet night at the mall planned for 7 to 8 p.m. Sunday, when families can bring their pets for pictures with Santa.

A Brunch with Santa is set for 9 a.m. Dec. 10, when kids have a chance to visit Santa, have breakfast provided by Chick-fil-A and participate in a craft time.

“I’m very pleased to bring the children of East Texas who come in here to visit me the spirit of Santa Claus and magic for all the children,” he said.

Santa Claus is at Broadway Square Mall from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Twitter: @TMTMelissa

 

Q&A WITH SANTA

What is your full name?

Santa Claus or Saint Nicholas.

Is Rudolph still around?

Rudolph is here. He is in Lindale on a ranch with the rest of my reindeer. That’s where I stay at night while I’m here in East Texas. I’ve got to tend to him every day. He’s a challenge.

Has your sleigh been upgraded?

It’s been upgraded a little bit, because I’ve got to have a little more carrying capacity. I extended the back end a couple of feet, and it makes me get off the ground better, too.

When is the deadline for children to turn in their wish list?

Probably Dec. 24, because my mailbox is getting very full.

What is your favorite food?

Chocolate chip cookies and milk.

Have there been any changes made to your pantsuit?

Yes, this suit is a little different. I don’t have to wear that big belt buckle, and it’s a longer coat which is more comfortable.

What is this favorite reindeer game we hear about?

I’ll give Rudolph a soccer ball, and they have a good time.