While the man with the white beard and red suit would typically make himself available to check children's wish lists ahead of December 25, which is now just 75 days away, the Sturt Mall has confirmed Father Christmas would not be visiting for the festive season.

Like many of us who are facing travel restrictions, Santa's trip to the mall has been put on hold due to social distancing concerns caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

"As Sturt Mall continues to follow and encourage health and government advice surrounding social distancing and COVID-19 restrictions, we have regrettably decided that we will not be hosting Santa Photos for Christmas 2020," a statement from the mall's centre management said.

"Sturt Mall is working on alternative activations to celebrate the festive season in a socially distant manner."

A spokesperson for the Wagga Marketplace said they were yet to finalise their Christmas plans due to the current environment.

Wagga resident Crystal Watson takes her children Winnie, 11, and Oliver, 10, to get Santa photos every year, and said it was "a big tradition" in her family.

"While it's disappointing that Santa photos are not being held this year in the Sturt Mall I think it is a reasonable and socially responsible decision," the 38-year-old said.

"A COVID outbreak in Wagga could devastate the community and make many people seriously sick - it's better to be safe than sorry."

Ms Watson said she was trying to convince her children to have a Santa photo every year until they were 18 because the pictures go in glass baubles on the Christmas tree.

"It's a lovely tradition while we decorate the tree to look back and laugh, share stories and reflect on the years gone by," she said.

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