STORM LAKE, Iowa (KTIV) -
You've probably begun to see some of the signs: the chilly air, the Christmas carols on the radio. Yes, the holidays are here, and so is Santa.
For 50 years, children of all ages have been coming to visit Santa's Castle in Storm Lake, Iowa. Inside, you forget about the weather outside, and just breathe in some of the magic of Christmas.
"My brother really runs around, so I have to go with him," said Emma Bumann of Sioux Falls, S.D.
As they make their way through each corridor, kids are transported to a world of animated Christmas toys.
"All the trains and the elves," said Jacob Fehrr of Denver, Colo.
There's even a place for folks to sign a guest book and place a pin on the map, showing how far they've come to meet Santa. In 2011, the castle started using the guest book for the first time, getting visitors from 47 states.
"I can't wait to see Santa," said Jaden Buckley of Storm Lake, Iowa.
And of course, meeting Santa is at the top of most kids' wish lists. Since the castle reopened after Thanksgiving, children have been stopping by, telling the big guy what they want for Christmas this year.
"A monster truck," said Ben Howey of Aurelia, Iowa.
For some, that's a little bit more challenging. Addison Schekirke has been bringing her parents to visit for the past few years to help her overcome her fears.
"She's really excited. She told Santa that even though she was scared, I think this is his third year of seeing Santa, but she's still really excited," said Ben Schekirke of Storm Lake, Iowa.
Still, for first time visitors, nothing compares to this world of Santa's.
"We really don't have anything like this in South Dakota," said Bumann.
Even though the castle is 50 years old, this Christmas they're celebrating the 10th anniversary of the train set, and have plans for a bigger 50th birthday bash next year.
Still, for first time visitors, nothing compares to this world of Santa's.
