Santa Claus is a pretty awesome dude. He makes presents for children. He flies around the world in one night, delivering those presents. And he keeps track of who has been naughty and who has been nice.
But Santa isn't a mind reader.
So if you want to let Santa know exactly what you want for Christmas, you've got to write him a letter.
Fortunately, the Park Place mall knows about the importance of writing to Santa, and mall organizers have taken steps to streamline the process.
They've started a Web site where you can download a form letter to Santa. And they've set up "Santa's mailbox," which zips letters directly to the North Pole, blasting passers-by with peppermint-scented snow in the process.
It's all part of the mall's Santastic experience, which also includes holiday music, real snow and, of course, the big man himself.
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Santastic organizers say the experience is for people of all ages.
But what if you've had an up- and-down year? Should you be nervous about stepping on Santastic's naughty-or-nice meter?
Tami Ivy, senior marketing manager for Park Place and the Tucson Mall, said that while the meter's needle has wavered, it has yet to declare anyone "naughty."
"Santa believes in the inherent goodness of every child," Ivy said.
Throughout the Santastic journey, participants listen to holiday music, experience snow and light shows, and are cheered on by Santa's helpers.
Families can have their photo taken with Santa, and the photos can be converted into holiday cards.
In addition, Santastic has a gift-wrapping center staffed by the Optimist Club.
Santastic organizers, who describe the exhibit as "a magical place where Santa believes in you," recommend you visit Santa early, before the lines get too long. And, as always, bring your wallet. The visit is free, but 5-by-7-inch photos start at $13.95, and each additional print is $7.95. Holiday cards start at $10.95 for a package of six cards; each additional three-pack costs $4.95.
What: Santastic
Where: Park Place mall, 5870 E. Broadway.
To download your Santa letter and for more info, visit: www.santabelievesinme.com.