Rappelling Santas spread holiday cheer to pediatric patients at Ronald McDonald House New York

Monday, December 22, 2025
UPPER EAST SIDE, Manhattan (WABC) -- A group of Santas found themselves "dropping in" to spread some holiday cheer to pediatric patients in Manhattan over the weekend.

The Santas rappelled down the Ronald McDonald House on the Upper East Side on Saturday, waving to young patients on the other side of the windows.

A person dressed up as a reindeer also joined the festivities.

Now in its fourth year, the event began during the pandemic to help bring joy to children battling pediatric cancer and other serious illnesses. The event is also part of the Ronald McDonald House's "31 Days of Cheer" campaign meant to help patients and their families celebrate the holidays amid their health battles.

Organizers say all the rappelling Santas were safely secured, so they were in no danger of getting hurt before Christmas.



The uplifting spectacle for RMH-NY families is made possible through the support of Skyline Access LLC, a leader in industrial rope access and faade inspection, and The Skyline Charitable Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the well-being of individuals and families.

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