Claus For A Picture 

This Pinehurst local takes his Christmas spirit seriously –– which is why he’s back for another year with his vintage carriage spruced up and ready for photos at 15 Pine Visa Drive. “We just like to see happy people,” Eddie Thompson says. This year, they switched up some of the decor, adding in fruits for a more “Williamsburg” look. For those who want a photo but don’t have a spare human to take it, there’s even a phone mount. It’s free; just show up and, of course, be respectful of the neighbors. 

Eddie says it’s the holiday excitement that keeps him going. “Now that my kids are grown they ask for checks,” he laughs. “This takes you back to the days that Santa was a big deal.” This year he also added a mailbox where kids can write letters to Santa and Mrs. Claus. Those with a return address will be answered, but letters should be put in the mailbox with plenty of time to get to the North Pole and back. There’s also an Instagram page that Eddie encourages people to tag.

• Saturday, Dec. 13: Stop by for cookies, hot chocolate and the chance to see Santa and hand deliver a note. The family will also be hosting a food drive for the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina.