Want to Meet Santa Claus? You'll Need a Reservation

Ho Ho Hope you have reservations. 

For the first time since the tradition began more than 150 years ago, Macy's Herald Square will require parents and kids to make reservations for their chance to tell the world's most famous department store Santa Claus what they want for Christmas.

As Macy's website explains, there are a lot of people who want to meet St. Nick. 

"Santa’s a popular guy, so the wait times to meet him have been quite long in previous years, especially on our busiest days. The new reservation system is designed to minimize this by scheduling visitors to join the line at a time of your choice, allowing for the best possible holiday experience."

Lap time with the Big Guy now requires kids to register for a pre-selected time, 30 minutes to up to five days ahead of time. The amount of slots is subject to availability and once you make your reservation that's it. 

Plus, the website warns, you don't want to keep Santa waiting. 

“Santa’s day is packed! To help keep him on schedule, please arrive within your time slot." 

The good news? Admissions is still free, but photo packages of your screaming toddler with Santa are available for purchase.