WHITEHALL TWP., Pa. — Spirit Halloween is getting into the Christmas spirit — literally.
"At Spirit, we believe the magic of the season does not end with Halloween — it transforms," Spirit Christmas Chief Executive Officer Steven Silverstein said.
This year, the company will grow its wintry footprint by opening 30 new stores across the Northeast and Great Lakes regions.
A spokesperson said some stores will open in late October, and others in early November after transitioning from Spirit Halloween stores.
The Lehigh Valley currently has four Spirit Halloween stores: in Easton, Whitehall, Allentown and Trexlertown.
A Spirit Christmas store locator shows the Whitehall store — at 1911 Whitehall Mall — is among the storefronts that will trade its iconic ghoulish mascot for St. Nick.
'Sensory rich, interactive experience'
Spirit Christmas will offer "an immersive in-store experience featuring festive decor, unique gifts, holiday apparel and interactive displays designed to spark joy and nostalgia," a news release said.
Guests also can walk through a life-sized peppermint village and mail letters to Santa.
"Back by popular demand and with even more locations, Spirit Christmas is an extension of our sensory-rich, interactive holiday experiences."
Spirit Christmas Chief Executive Officer Steven Silverstein
This year, in partnership with Cherry Hill Programs, Santa will return to select stores — including the Whitehall location — for holiday photos with families beginning Nov. 21.
Guests can get their visit with Father Christmas on SpiritChristmas.com. Pre-booking was not yet available at the Whitehall store at the time of writing.
"Back by popular demand and with even more locations, Spirit Christmas is an extension of our sensory-rich, interactive holiday experiences," Silverstein said in a release.
"From our one-of-a-kind Santa photo experience to an exclusive collection of festive merchandise, we're thrilled to welcome guests back for another unforgettable season of magic and fun."