Shop Small Saturday pleases Margate shoppers, merchants and Santa too

Santa, his Elf and a Unicorn make their way up Ventnor Avenue in a Margate Beach Patrol surf boat.

MARGATE - Santa Claus and his helpers visited Margate Saturday to kick-off Shop Small Saturday, which in Margate translates to Shop Small Weekend.

Shoppers and visitors took advantage of great holiday sales, bought unique items and picked up gift certificates for their holiday gift-giving. But they made sure to take a break and enjoy some dining at local restaurants.

Although Santa was unable to mingle with the crowd because he was on his way back to the North Pole, children and families waved to Santa, his Elf and Unicorn being escorted by the Margate City FIre Department, Margate City Police Department and  95.1 WAYV.

Santa left his special mailbox at Bocca's Coal Fired Bistro where children can place their letters to Santa. The special mailbox will be in the foyer at Bocca's Coal Fired Bistro this Saturday and Sunday.

Everyone was having fun this weekend with retailers showing off their great selection of unique items and at Johnny's Cafe staff got into the holiday spirit working along Santa to greet customers coming in to dine and enjoy the outdoors.

Businesses will be offering deals through the holidays. See more at margatehasmore.com for details.