The figure weighs about 900 pounds and has a 33-foot waist. The large festive building near the giant jolly old elf is the Santa Claus House. The building, which is a gift shop run by a long-time North Pole family, boasts colorful murals on the outside and it a popular spot for snapshots. Santa Claus is home throughout the year. Between the Santa Claus House and its neighbor, Santaland RV Park, live two of the most famous four-legged creatures in American holiday lore, Comet and Cupid.
Visitors are welcome to wander back to the pen and visit the reindeer.
During the summer season, the animals will come out for their daily walk and visitors can have their picture taken with the famous pair. The cabins are home to the station's 20 volunteer staff members and their families. Visitors are welcome to stop by the station for a free tour, beginning at about 9 a.m. each morning. Groups larger than six or eight people should call the station at 488-2216 to make an appointment. Chena Lake Recreation Area and the Chena Flood Control Project are two favorite locations for outdoor recreation.