MEMPHIS, TN (December 5, 2025) – Delta Air Lines and Memphis International Airport once again hosted the Fantasy Flight to the “North Pole” for patients from St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and their families on Friday, December 5.

This marked the first time since 2019 that the event returned to MEM. Children arrived at the airport at 4:30 p.m. on December 5 to check in and receive special boarding passes before going through the security checkpoint. At 5:30 p.m., they departed on their trip to the North Pole on a plane provided by Delta Air Lines that taxied around the airfield before arriving at a different gate, where Santa and his friends welcomed the children.

In addition to Santa, special guests included Rocky the Redbird, Pouncer the Tiger, cheerleaders from Memphis Cheer and the University of Memphis, and University of Memphis basketball coach, Penny Hardaway. The children had the chance to pose for photos with our guests and and with the emotional support pups from West TN Therapy Dogs. The “North Pole” featured elaborately decorated trees, twinkle lights, tables full of complimentary gifts and toys, cupcake and hot chocolate stations, and activity areas for coloring and face painting.

This event marked the 11th Fantasy Flight that Delta Air Lines and Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority (MSCAA) employees have coordinated with assistance from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and other airport tenant partners.

“We are thrilled to resume this wonderful holiday event,” said Terry Blue, MSCAA President and CEO. “We’re so grateful for our partners at Delta Air Lines and the many airport employees and tenant partners who work to make this happen. More importantly, we’re excited to once again bring holiday joy to these children and their families!”