Cookies, cocoa and rosy red cheeks. Santa is making an appearance again this holiday season all over the Valley. Don’t miss your chance to take a photo and share your wish list with the jolly man from the North Pole himself.
SanTan Village
Through Dec. 24
On his tour through the Valley, Santa will make a stop at SanTan Village near Harkins Theaters. The big guy will be available for photos and visits with the whole family from 12-8 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 12-6 p.m. on Sunday. Photo prices start at $30. You can even bring your pet for a photo with “Santa Paws.” Go to http://www.shopsantanvillage.com/events/santa_2014 for more details.
Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall
Through Dec. 24
Fashion Square is bringing you much more than a big red chair, but the complete Santa’s Magical Workshop & Observatory, located in the food court. Once inside, you can take photos with Santa and participate in various family activities, such as experiencing Elf-Ray Vision and scanning yourself on the Naughty or Nice O’Meter. Hours are from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Sunday. Check http://www.fashionsquare.com/Events/Details/219930?startDate=11%2F15%2F2014 for more prices and hours.
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
The Fairmont Scottsdale is also opening a Santa’s Workshop this year at La Hacienda Plaza for special visits with Kris Kringle himself. Photos are only $10 and available for immediate pick-up. After sharing your wish list, you can participate in the other holiday activities, from ice skating to a light show to a carousel ride. For more info, go to http://www.scottsdaleprincess.com/seasonal-events/christmas-at-the-princess.
Paradise Valley Mall
Through Dec. 16
Aside from hearing your gift wishes, Santa will also be telling a holiday story from 10-10:30 a.m. every Tuesday. Story Time is free and open to kids of all ages in Dillard’s Court. For more info, go to http://www.theparadisevalleymall.com/Events/Details/186201.
Westgate Entertainment District
Through Dec. 24
If you share your wish list and snap a photo with Santa at Westgate Entertainment District, you will receive a free gift while supplies last! Photo prices start at $25. http://westgateaz.com/santa/
Tolmachoff Farms
Dec. 13 & 20
Santa is making a trip to the farm this holiday season for two days only. You will be able to take your picture with the big guy next to a bonfire, as well as sip on hot chocolate or apple cider and munch on kettle corn and s’mores. The event runs from 12-4 p.m. on both days. Go to http://www.tolmachoff-farms.com/christmas_events_phoenix_glendale_arizona.html for more info.
The Polar Express
Through Jan. 3
All aboard the train to the North Pole for a day with Santa Claus. Grand Canyon Railway is offering trips to a special place complete with hot cocoa and cookies for the ride, with gifts and Christmas characters waiting when you arrive. The train leaves each night at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Make a reservation at http://www.thetrain.com/special-events/the-polar-express/.
Bass Pro Shop
Through Dec. 24
While Dad shops for his fishing and hunting necessities, take the kiddos to meet Santa at his workshop in the Mesa Bass Pro Shop location, complete with fun crafts and moving trains. You will receive a free photo, but photo packages and Christmas cards are also available for purchase. Check here for all the exciting details.
Dr. A.J. Chandler Park
Through Dec. 20
Santa is bringing his winter home to Chandler too. Take a step inside “Santa’s House” to meet the jolly old man and get a free picture taken with him. Exclusively on Dec. 11, the Pueblo Middle School Choir will perform! Go to http://www.chandleraz.gov/default.aspx?pageid=711 for specific dates and times the House will be open.
Kiwanis Recreation Center
Dec. 27-28
Join Santa as he works off all the holiday cookies at the Swimming with Santa event in Tempe. Take a splash in the heated indoor wave pool with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and then hear a holiday story while you munch on milk and cookies. Ticket prices range from $5-9. The event will run from 1-5 p.m. Go to http://www.tempe.gov/Home/Components/News/News/3308/3149?backlist=%2Fcity-hall%2Fcommunity-services to see more details.
