Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and guidance from public health officials recommending social distancing, the tradition of meeting Santa Claus will look and feel different this year.

From Nov. 27-Dec. 24, visitors to Sugar Land Town Square will be able to interact with Santa through a mixed-reality holographic snow globe created by Dallas-based Flight School Studio, according to a press release.

The innovative technology, known as Santa’s MAGI-SPHERE, will allow Santa to project a real-time 3D version of himself to guests, who can then tell him their holiday wishes, the release said.

“This is truly a unique and remarkable way to interact with Santa, and I know families will remember it for years to come,” said Brandon Oldenburg, chief creative officer of Flight School Studio, in the release. “The use of emerging technology allows us to make storytelling and experiences much more extraordinary. This is especially impactful when re-inventing such a longstanding holiday tradition.”

Flight School Studio is a team of artists and storytellers working on immersive experiences in films, games, virtual reality and augmented reality. The studio is planning to open a permanent interactive experience in Sugar Land Town Square in 2021.


Reservations for the free meet Santa experience can be made in person or online at www.santasugarland.com.