WestJet has revived its Real-Time Giving campaign, surprising more than 100 guests with gifts as they travelled from Toronto to Calgary.
This year's Christmas Miracle is called Parents' Wishlist.
Before boarding their flight, families visited Santa's Station at YYZ. WestJet's Blue Santa engaged with children, asking them what they believed their parents wanted for Christmas. The often imaginative and amusing responses laid the foundation for a surprise upon arrival in at YYC.
"As a mom, I'm often amused by what my kids guess I might like for Christmas," says Jennifer Callegaro, Director of Marketing at WestJet. "Our annual Christmas Miracle is a heartwarming reminder of the magic of giving.
"WestJet is proud to continue our tradition of spreading joy, while helping our guests travelling over the holidays create magical memories."
During the 4.5-hour flight, WestJetters hurried through Calgary stores to gather and wrap the children's requests for gifts. Upon landing, families were greeted with their holiday wishes—wrapped and waiting at the baggage carousel.
Some families found simple items like avocados waiting for them, while others were surprised by more extravagant gifts, including family trips to Italy and high-tech gadgets like smartphones and tablets, courtesy of partners such as TELUS. Other surprises included VIP experiences at sporting events, signed jerseys from local teams, vacations at luxurious hotels, and gift cards to local restaurants.
WestJet said the success of this year's Christmas Miracle was made possible through the support of various partners, including Canadian Tire, CrossIron Mills, Toronto Pearson International Airport, and Calgary International Airport.
