Earlier this spring, Rochester MN learned that ABC & Toy Zone was closing due to retirement. It is certainly bittersweet news for our community as Steve and Rene Nordhus — the owners — have created countless memories and worked tirelessly for families in the community. Not to mention the endless ways they have served organizations such as Toys for Tots and Ronald McDonald House. However, they have earned a well-deserved retirement, and we wish them ALL the best!
The question that quickly followed was, “Where will Santa go?” For 8 years, Rochester’s favorite Santa found a home at ABC & Toy Zone. If you’ve visited our Santa, you know why he is so special. He started out at Apache Mall over 20 years ago, but when negotiations over hours worked broke down, a group of passionate and dedicated community members (we see you Melissa Eggler and friends!) banded together to find Santa a new home. Enter ABC & Toy Zone. Families have been able to visit Santa throughout the holiday season AND get their shopping done at the same time.
TODAY, we visited Santa Claus at ABC & TOY ZONE’s Christmas in July Sale — a pop-up to sell remaining inventory as well as an opportunity for teachers to purchase supplies for the upcoming school year.
Santa’s NEW Rochester Home will be Hy-Vee West Circle Drive and Galleria at University Square
Starting Sunday, November 26th, Santa’s TENTATIVE schedule will be:
Sunday, November 26th:
11:00 AM – 3 PM // HyVee, West Circle Drive
Monday – Friday during the Holiday Season:
11:00 AM – 3 PM // HyVee, West Circle Drive
4:00 PM – 7 PM // Galleria at University Square
Saturdays during the Holiday Season:
11 AM – 3 PM // Galleria at University Square
4 PM – 7 PM // HyVee, West Circle Drive
Sundays during the Holiday Season:
11 AM – 3 PM
Donations
When you visit Santa, please consider how you can make a donation as a thank you for visiting. Santa Claus funds life during the off-season at the North Pole and his trips to and from Rochester through the generosity of those in the Rochester community. This is his full-time career. ♡
