It’s the holiday season, and Santa’s social calendar is totally booked with events in and around Washington, DC. Although he brings joy to children everywhere, especially on Christmas day, Santa spreads the spirit of the season with appearances in November and December. Check out the options below to help you decide how your family will get a photo with Santa this year.
Traditional Photo Opportunities With Santa
If you are strapped for time and need an efficient way to get a photo with Santa and do some Christmas shopping at the same time, check out these DC-area shopping places. All of them offer a traditional photo opportunity experience in a winter wonderland-themed setting. Reservations may be required in advance. Check each location’s website for details.
November 5 – December 24
Santa’s Wonderland
Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Stores, Hanover, MD, and Gainesville, VA
*Reservations required
November 9 – December 24
Photos with Santa
Tysons Corner Center, Tysons Corner, VA
*Reservations encouraged
December 9-10
Santa’s Just Like Me
Neiman-Marcus at Tyson’s Galleria, Tysons, VA
*Reserve your spot with Santa Warren who is a Black Santa
November 17 – December 24
Lights. Camera. Santa.
Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, Arlington, VA
*Check the website for reservation information
November 18 – December 24
Santa’s Back!
Mall at Prince George’s, Hyattsville, MD
*Reservations encouraged and in years past, they have a Black Santa!
TBD (This event was on November 19 last year.)
Santa at Ellsworth Place
Ellsworth Place, Silver Spring, MD
Check the website for details! The event is not yet posted on the website.
November 30 – December 24
Pictures with Santa
Mondawmin Mall in Baltimore, MD
*Make a reservation online. This is a Black Santa.
November 24 – December 24
Santa at Mosaic
District Avenue, Fairfax, VA
*Check the website for reservation information and specific dates/times of operation
Special Family Holiday Experiences
Surround yourself with snow, sweets, and Santa during these joyful family experiences. Each venue offers a unique way to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy the season with your family. Santa usually makes an appearance at each one, so be sure to try to spot him if you can!
November 24 – December 19
The Polar Express Train Ride
B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore, MD
*They have Santa photo packages for sale.
November 24 – December 17
Christmas at Cox Farms
Cox Farms, Centreville, VA
Note: It’s unclear that Santa will appear at Cox Farms; check the website for details.
November 24
Holiday Tree Lighting and Santa Firetruck Parade
District Avenue, Fairfax, VA
November 30
National Christmas Tree Lighting
Washington, DC
Watch the ceremony on TV and then visit the tree in person!
If you have additional suggestions or experiences to share about the opportunities mentioned in this post, please comment below!
