By Mike Dougherty

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Santa, Mrs. Claus and their elves touched down at a mall in South Jersey Friday night.

“Santa! Oh my god!”

Yeah, Buddy. He’s here already; three weeks before Thanksgiving. For many though, there’s no such thing as too early.

“I prepare for Christmas all year long, to tell you the truth. I have a tree up already and some other decorations. It’s my favorite time of the year.”

Santa and the gang led a parade of jubulent children and their parents through Moorestown Mall to his workshop where the kids shared wishlists for this Christmas.

“A walking puppy and Strawberry Shortcake toys.”

“I want Joe Builds.”

Santa’s sleigh might be a little lighter than usual this year – many of the kids here, even the little ones, are asking for iPads.