SEATTLE — Aside from Kringles Filling Station classics like hot chocolate delivered by a gas pump and skeeball, the inventive crew have come up with all kinds of new ways to celebrate the holiday season.
"We have a brand new sleigh," marketing manager Sandy Dodge said. "Santa is riding in style in an 1983 Chrysler LeBaron. Santa's sleigh is full of presents in the back. People can hop in and take photos. It's a really fun photo op. We have new games that we've invented for people and we have brand new merch so the Kringles are expanding their retail palate as well."
The first thing returning visitors might notice is a large red container on the property. Inside lies an immersive photo opportunity involving an upside down fireplace.
Started back in 2021, with a desire to connect with people, Kringles Filling Station has become a place to fill up on holiday cheer.
"I think coming out of the pandemic there is a greater appetite than ever for immersive environments," Dodge said. "People want to participate in something unique with something made by hand with engineering and creative ideas at work so I think definitely since the pandemic people are interested in going to a new world that just happens to be in the neighborhood or down the street from them."
Kringles has also formed a non-profit this year called Analog Heart Collective, with a mission to build community through creativity. From 9 p.m. to 11p.m. on December 13th, 14th, 20th and 21st, during Kringles At Night, people aged 21 and over can gather for karaoke and other activities. Liquor sales benefit Aurora Commons and REST, two non-profits dedicated to the well-being and improvements on Aurora Avenue.
Kringles Filling Station runs through December 30, 2024.
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