Disappointed parents in the UK and Australia decry traffic jams and scary decorations
Christmas grottos – the miniature, temporary Santa Claus-themed wonderlands that pop up around the world in December – seem to have taken a dark turn this year. In Britain and Australia, reports have trickled in of events that feel more akin to Fyre Festival than a festive celebration for the whole family.
In the UK, a drive-through grotto was criticised for long waits and creepy performers, including a “man in chains by a tree just staring at the car”.