Before Santa comes to town, he has a few personal calls to make.
To your kids.
Keeping with tradition, the city of Tucson's Parks and Recreation Department has patched Santa through from the North Pole to the Old Pueblo with its Santa's Calling program.
"During this time of year, not everyone is prosperous on the giving part, but that little thing that perks it up can make a world of a difference," says Carl White, the recreation coordinator.
Here's five things you need to know so your kids can get that magical call from Santa himself.
1. Time is of the essence. The city needs you to fill out an application that they receive in the mail by Thursday, Dec. 1. Find it here. The form will give Santa and his elves some basic information about the kiddos they'll be calling — a refresher of the naughty and nice list, if you will. You'll see questions about pet names, hobbies and expected gifts. You'll also see a place for "positive reminders" you'd like Santa to share with your kids. Need some backup on the chores or homework front? Santa's your man.
2. Santa only has time to call kids between the ages of 4 and 8. Already, the city has received more than 100 letters, White says.
3. Expect a call 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 6 or Wednesday, Dec. 7. If the city receives enough applications, they may ask Santa to make some calls on Thursday, Dec. 8, too. If Santa can't get a hold of you (or you miss the deadline), your kids can expect a letter in the mail.
4. Santa speaks Spanish. No shocker there, he speaks every language. The Parks and Recreation Department has also provided an application for kids who would be more comfortable chatting with Santa in Spanish.
5. Don't expect a private call. Although the information you provide in the application is confidential, Santa will likely be making the call from his workshop. There's a chance your kids will hear elves in the background, making sure everything is ready for Christmas Eve.
To learn more or print out an application, visit tucsonaz.gov/parks/announcement/santas-calling or call 791-4589.
