No chimney, no problem: Santa caught climbing up a building in George Town, Penang recently. — K.T.GOH/ The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Something must have happened to the reindeer because this year, Santa has been seen “climbing” many buildings to drop presents.
Inflatable Santa Claus figurines of many sizes, shaped as if they are scaling the exterior walls of buildings, are popping up in several places here.
Indeed, inflatable Christmas decorations are turning out to be the in-thing this year.
Steven Khoo, who offers a wide range of festive decorations, said he was taken aback by the demand for inflatable Santa Clauses, snowmen and even trees.
“We did have them last year, but they were not very popular.
“This time, some of the sizes have been sold out and we had to order new stock.
“People like them as they can be kept indoors or outdoors and only need a plug point.
“When deflated, they fit into small boxes, making them easy to store,” he said in an interview.
For Christmas trees, Khoo said cafes and similar businesses want big, imposing sizes, and even homes desire trees of around 1.5m tall for a grander display.
“People seem to be leaning towards the classic green trees rather than the colourful or the white ones.
“Now, the trend is transparent ornaments and fancily shaped ones compared with the usual glittery designs,” he said.
He said another latest fad is the dancing cactus toy dressed in Christmas garb.
“It can record your voice and replay it as it dances.
“It is a hit with both adults and children. I sell at least one daily,” he said.
Glad that this year’s business has been good, Khoo said he did not expect such items to do so well.
“Last year, I had unsold stock, so I decided not to order so much this year.
“But most of the items have been sold out already, so I had to quickly restock,” he said.
He said people are aiming for a joyful Christmas, getting fancy and creative Christmas mugs and pretty gift bags to put presents in.
“They love music boxes that play Christmas classics instead of the usual snow globes,” he said.
People have started shopping earlier as well, he added.
“Last year, people shopped closer to Christmas Day. This time, we have had customers as early as November,” he said.
Irene Tan, 41, who made a quick stop to buy decorations, said while she did not celebrate Christmas, she wanted her fashion boutique to look festive.
“I bought some cut-out snowflakes to create a snowy effect to liven up the mood,” she said.
Student Genevie Choo, 23, who was seen choosing a mug, said it was for a gift exchange with friends.
“Every Christmas, we will organise a gift exchange. We have a budget of between RM30 and RM70.
Choo said although she does not celebrate the season, Christmas is a fun time to put up some decorations and spend time with friends.
“We always make it a point to do something for Christmas,” she said.
