Photo © Fairbanks Tourism
Ever wonder where those letters to Santa Claus really go? They just might end up in North Pole, Alaska—not the geographic North Pole, but a suburb 15 minutes south of Fairbanks. North Pole is a town that embraces the Christmas spirit 365 days a year. The North Pole Post Office receives more than 400,000 pieces of mail annually simply addressed to “Santa Claus, North Pole, Alaska.” And every year, Santa’s helpers respond to each letter.
If you happen to travel to North Pole, Alaska, for the holidays, you’re in for a few festive treats. In December and January, Christmas-themed ice sculptures by local and international artists light up the town during the “Christmas in Ice” contest. And look out New York City, special events include North Pole’s version of the count down to 2015: the New Year’s Eve Snowflake Drop.
Santa Claus House, the quintessential Christmas shop that’s the heart of the town, offers a vast selection of holiday decorations, toys and gift items, and Santa is on hand year-round to greet visitors.
For more information about Santa Claus House, go online at santaclaushouse.com; North Pole, travelalaska.com/Destinations/Communities/NorthPole.aspx, and the greater Fairbanks area, explorefairbanks.com.
