How Much Is Too Much To Sit On Santa’s Lap?

For generations, kids have been anxiously waiting their turn to sit on Santa's lap to tell him what they want for Christmas. But these days, families may want to plan a budget before going to see the man in red.

When I was a kid, I remember going to see Santa at major department stores or shopping centers and my parents having the option of purchasing photos.

Of course, the job of Santa's elves' was to sell families photo packages, but kids could still visit with the big guy at no cost.

But last year, you may remember that New Jersey's Cherry Hill Mall ran into some controversy when they were requiring photo package purchases that started at $35 for kids to see Santa. The mall eventually backtracked on the required photo purchase.

So what's changed in a year? According to this report from a Philadelphia lifestyle website, the cost to to get photos with Santa in South Jersey this year has actually gone up, with packages (and, according to one mother, a required reservation) now starting at $40.

So what do you think, how much is too much for a visit with Santa Claus? Comment below and weigh in!