Santa arrives on wings: In coastal Labrador, a Twin Otter has an edge on Rudolph
Santa and Mrs. Claus brought holiday cheer to the northern communities of Hopedale, Postville, Makkovik, and Rigolet last week, making a special visit to meet with kids and hear their Christmas wishes. The iconic duo arrived in style on a Twin Otter plane, much to the delight of the children eagerly waiting for them.
The excitement was palpable as the plane touched down in each community, with kids eagerly awaiting their chance to speak to Santa and share their Christmas lists. Jonathan Nochasak, bundled up in his warmest coat, eagerly shared his wish list with Santa, which included a volleyball net, a big speaker, and a round trip to Goose Bay for an “act of paradise.” He even realized he needed a ball to go with the volleyball net, adding a touch of humor to the moment.
Santa’s helpers unloaded 365 packages, each carefully prepared by the Happy Valley-Goose Bay Rotary Club for the children. Inside each package was a gift that connected Labrador’s rich culture to Christmas – a copy of children’s author Robert Munsch’s “Give Me Back My Dad!” The book, inspired by Munsch’s visit to Rigolet, held special significance for one young girl, Ella Allen, whose cousin Cheryl Allen was dedicated in the book.
The adults present also felt the magic of the moment, with James Earle, one of Air Borealis’ pilots, sharing how the children’s excitement was contagious. The tradition of Santa visiting the northern communities of Labrador before Christmas dates back nearly 60 years, with the Royal Air Force and Royal Canadian Air Force initiating the practice. The Happy Valley-Goose Bay Rotary Club has since taken over the tradition, partnering with Air Borealis to ensure that the spirit of the event lives on.
As Santa and Mrs. Claus boarded the Twin Otter to head to their next destination, families left with arms full of gifts and hearts full of joy. The sweet aroma of cookies gifted by an Inuk woman lingered in the air, adding to the festive atmosphere. As the plane taxied down the runway, a few children waved and cheered one last time, bidding farewell to Santa and Mrs. Claus until next year.
The annual visit of Santa and Mrs. Claus to the northern communities of Labrador continues to bring happiness and the spirit of Christmas to children and families, keeping the magic of the holiday season alive in these remote regions.
