by Mila from Tampa asks Santa about a climbing Santa ladder decoration, learns about Tampa Bay, and hears about Tampa’s real Christmas boat parade tradition
Dear Santa, my name is Mila and I am nine years old. I live in Tampa, Florida, where my dad says boats decorated with lights parade right through our bay every December, which I think is one of the coolest traditions ever.
Dear Mila, I have watched that exact parade myself from above, and your dad’s enthusiasm for it is entirely well placed.
Santa, I have three questions.
My first question is, is there a climbing Santa ladder? My neighbor puts one on his roof every year, and it always makes me laugh.
Those climbing decorations have become genuinely popular, Mila, and I take them all in good humor. A bit of playful silliness never hurt anyone during the season.
My second question is about our bay. My teacher says Tampa Bay is one of the largest open-water estuaries in the entire country. Is that true?
It is, Mila. Tampa Bay is one of the largest estuaries in the United States, where fresh river water meets the salty Gulf, supporting an enormous variety of wildlife. Flying over its wide, warm water each Christmas Eve is a genuinely beautiful part of my Florida route.
My third question is about the boat parade. My teacher says it has been happening here for a long time. Is that true?
It is true, Mila. Tampa’s Christmas boat parade has been a beloved tradition for many years, with decorated boats gliding along the water each December. I always enjoy watching those lights reflect off the bay as I make my approach.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Mila Fernández
Tampa, Florida
P.S. Do you wave at the boat parade when you fly over?
Every year, Mila. It would be rude not to.
