For decades, Baltimore families looking to celebrate their baby’s first Christmas or carry on the magic just a little bit longer with their older children could come to Mondawmin Mall and soak up the holiday cheer brought by Santa Luke, a jolly, thoughtful, and warmhearted gentleman who has donned the suit since the mid-‘80s.
But as they made their holiday plans this year, many were likely surprised to see that the stalwart Santa wasn’t in his usual chair this season.
Luke Durant — affectionately known as Santa Luke — has taken the year off to focus on his health. Though he’s heartbroken that he has to miss out on his annual Santa duties this year as well as last year, he can’t wait to get back out there next year to share wisdom and spread joy for young people across Baltimore…