AUSTIN, Texas – Even though many shoppers have moved their holiday purchases online, malls are still trying to attract customers during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this time with the help of Santa.

One mall in Austin is trying to make sure families can still get a picture with Santa.

The Lakeline Mall is offering photo ops with Santa from November 20 through December 24.

They say guests must wear a mask where mandated and that Santa and his helpers will be wearing masks as well.

The website says photos will be socially distanced but do not provide details on what the final photos will look like.

Santa and “his helpers” will also be wearing masks during the photo op.

While this experience is offered in person, Santas across the country are taking a different approach.

According to the Associated Press, many are opting for virtual or drive-by experiences instead.  

“Most of us tick all the boxes: We are old, we are overweight, we have diabetes and if we don’t have diabetes, we have heart disease,” said Stephen Arnold, the president of IBRBS, an association formerly known as the International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas.