* “As for me, I like to take my Christmas a little at a time, all through the year.”
The North Pole conjures up thoughts of our childhood Santa; a jolly fat man in a red suit bringing treasures in the middle of the night. Christmas is a special time for many; Hallmark surely knows it! So getting a chance to visit the North Pole is an opportunity not to be missed.
Right after Christmas, on January 15, 1953 , the North Pole became a city; before that it was just a homestead where a family by the name of Davis had settled. A development company bought it in 1952, and named it The North Pole in hopes of attracting some toy company that could stamp its toys “made in the North Pole.” That never materialized, but the name stuck . A trading post was opened that also served as the post office for the area; it was named The Santa Clause House. That Santa Claus House is still there and it has grown into a winter wonderland including: toys, Christmas decor, the Santa sweet shop, activities, photo opportunities – including pictures with Santa. You will not walk away without a smile or empty-handed. I got a moose for my grandchild that had North Pole embroidered on a knitted scarf around its neck. Prices are quite reasonable too; the moose was $20.00 and over 2 feet tall. I was very tempted to keep it for myself, lol
This iconic place is located just a 20-minute drive fro Fairbanks down the Richardson Hwy which was constructed in 1977 and boosted the economy of the area. The town has gone through many ups and downs, but today you will see a welcoming community of over 2,000 people where the Christmas theme is evident at every turn.
Ironically, this city is 1,700 miles from the geographic North Pole. The weather varies with average lows going no lower than -15, while average highs are in the70’s. The record low has reached -67 ; though I would add that it is a dry cold and feels different than a wet cold. You must experience this to understand. It’s like a humid, summer day is more uncomfortable than a drier, low humidity day. The highest high temperature recorded there was a sweltering 96 degrees. Yes, it can get that hot in Alaska; I have personally experienced it. On a positive note, it does not last and the nights do cool off significantly.
So no worries, while you are visiting this magical place, the weather should be pleasant for you. Just remember to dress in layers, winter or summer while you go off exploring any part of Alaska.
Though a sign in its store reads, “there is no place like the North Pole for Christmas ,” the Santa Clause House does close down in January and February. The summer is the time most visitors flock to the town and sightsee its many quirky, festive features, such as its street names: Santa Claus Lane, and Nicholas Drive. You can get your picture taken on the giant red sleigh parked in front of no 1 Santa Claus Lane. This would make a great family picture on your next Christmas card. The local businesses get involved in adding Christmas cheer to the area; McDonalds has its pole candy stripped; or you can spend the night at Hotel North Pole; we did. Even pets will feel welcomed because the area boasts a dog park named, of course, The North Pole Dog Park.
If you don’t get a chance to visit, you still have the opportunity to give someone a unique Santa experience by having a letter sent to a child or ordering a variety of merchandise items that range from $9.95 to $24. 95. (as of this writing) https://www.santaclaushouse.com/santaletteroptions.asp Of course if you do visit, for the cost of a stamp and a $1.00 postcard, the store will postmark and mail it for you. ( at the present time or in December)
Santa letters from all around the world arrive there each year. Volunteers from the community respond to the letters that can total over 400,000. Some arrive simply addressed: Santa Clause, North Pole, Alaska.
There is so much to do in Alaska; so if you find yourself near Fairbanks, take the 20 minute drive. Your inner child will thank you.
Sometimes you even meet people along the way. At the Hotel North Pole, I met a friendly, young lady handling the front desk check-in counter who shared my name. Now you may say, that is nothing out of the ordinary; but when your name is Alina and you have met only a handful of people with the same name, then it is a little more special. I hope you are doing well, Alina; it was a pleasure meeting you. I can only imagine how your puppy must have grown by now. Enjoy living in the North Pole and I wish you the best wherever life may take you. https://www.instagram.com/p/Cf2tF4TrUJU/?img_index=1
* Quote at the beginning by David Grayso
Two Moro's Travels 
Leave a comment