It's official now, kids.

Santa's in town.

At least, our town.

Friday meant the end of school for the Thanksgiving holiday for many Abilene students, and the first order of business was welcoming Santa to the Mall of Abilene.

He arrived as dusk near the Premiere 10 movie theater, not to see "The Grinch" or "The Nutcracker and the Four Realms" but to parade to his seat inside, at Woodland Friends. From his special chair, he'll spend quality time with youngsters over the next few weeks, listening to and noting their Christmas gift requests.

You can find him at the Women's Dillard's Courtyard, available for photos and visits through Dec. 24.

But if Santa's taking a break, don't pout. He'll know.