That jolly red man in the red suit is scheduled to make his way from the Hawthorne Hotel roof on Friday at 5:30 p.m. with the help of the Salem Fire Department.

Following his grand arrival, he'll meet with boys and girls at Museum Place Mall to discuss their Christmas wishes.

We caught up with Santa via carrier Snowy Owl Post, and he was kind enough to send us a reply with his preparations for the grand arrival.

Here is his letter:

Late November and early December is a very busy time for me, all of Santa's helpers, Mrs. Kringle, and of course, the elves. There is much to be done by all involved. Lists need to be read, gifts prepared and a solid schedule laid out. 

This past Monday, I was out grooming the reindeer. This is one of my favorite things to do. The elves help out, of course, but I have always liked to do much of the grooming myself. Dasher and his crew are such magnificent creatures and they deserve all of the attention I can give them. 

As I was singing softly to Dancer and brushing his shoulders, I heard the voice of Mrs. Kringle on the intercom — "Santa," she said, you have a call from Salem on your private line." Now there are many Salems out there, but somehow I knew which one was calling. 

It was Jennifer Bell of Salem Main Streets calling to finalize arrangements for my arrival this Friday, Dec. 2, on the roof of the Hawthorne Hotel. 

"Well, Hello Ms. Bell, is everything ready for us?" I asked.

"Of course, Santa," came the reply. We're ready for you down here and hope that this year, you'll be able to grant the wishes of all of the children in Salem."

That, of course, is not a problem. That is what I do for all of the good boys and girls all over the world. Salem has become one of my favorite pre-Christmas stops for many reasons.

The staff at the Hawthorne Hotel treat me very well. The small tasty snack they prepare for me always hits the spot. A team is always ready to tend to the reindeer with fresh water and a nutritious nibble.

The Salem Fire Department will be ready for my 5:30 p.m. landing and will insure that I safely descend the ladder to the waiting fire truck. It is always a treat to hear the cheers and calls from the crowd. Then, it will be on to the Museum Place Mall, where I will sit and chat with all of the children. We'll have some elves there helping out, including Aaron and Dan, who will sing some wonderful Christmas carols.

Chef Antonio Bettencourt of 62 Restaurant & Wine Bar will provide fresh hot chocolate with marshmallows and Witch Tee's will have a face painter there to add to the festivities.

Mark your calendars for Dec. 16, because I will make I brief return trip for the Salem Open House Shopping Night.

Happy December, and Merry Christmas to all!