Photo by MIke Lamb Judson Apitz takes a photo of Santa sitting inside a motorcycle shop in front of a display window Saturday. His sister, Lydia, also took a photo.

TRACY — Lydia Apitz wanted to let Santa Claus know she wanted a unicorn egg for Christmas. Her brother, Judson, was wishing for a Paw Patrol airplane.

On Saturday, thanks to city of Tracy’s police chief and many other volunteers, Lydia and Judson were able to let Santa know of their wishes in person despite pandemic restrictions.

“Somebody brought it to my attention that, ‘you know, it would be really nice if we can set up something for the kids to see Santa,'” Tracy Police Chief Jason Lichty said while standing outside a motorcycle shop on Highway 14. Inside the building, Santa was sitting inside in front of the large display window waving to children. Their parents drove vehicles up to the window. The children were also able to drop off their letters to Santa and watch him read them.

“They were just really excited to see Santa this year,” Amanda Apitz said of Lydia and Judson.

Santa kept busy Saturday. He also showed up in Lucan, riding on top of a fire truck with Mrs. Claus.

According to Cris Knott, Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived were picked up at the local airport and driven to Lucan.

“Working within the recommended COVID guidelines, they handed out treat bags via rope and pole and the kids were able to get their letters to Santa the same way,” Knott said. “It was so good to see so many smiles.”