While North Carolinians are being instructed to stay at home overnight to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Governor Roy Cooper said one jolly traveler will still be allowed to visit houses Thursday night.

The governor shared a video message on Wednesday saying he is excluding Santa Claus from his executive order implementing a curfew between 10 a.m. and 5 a.m.

“In order to finish his official duties on Christmas Eve, Santa Claus will be exempt from the modified stay-at-home order,” said Cooper.

“But just like the rest of us,” the governor added, “he knows he still needs to wear a mask. It’s important for all of us, even Santa, to continue to practice our three W’s: wear a face covering, wait six feet apart and wash your hands often.”

Cooper’s modified stay-at-home order went into effect December 11 as a method attempting to curtail the spread of COVID-19 at businesses or social gatherings into the night. The order also requires all on-site alcohol sales in North Carolina to end by 9 p.m., although a new order allows for alcohol and cocktails to now be either delivered or picked up to-go.

Cooper’s office said in a release about Santa Claus’ exemption the governor is recommending Santa to take cookies and milk to go as he visits houses this year.

Photo via the Office of Governor Roy Cooper.

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