Updated for 2024!
It's that time of year when Santa pays an early visit to all the boys and girls of the world and sees who has been naughty and who has been nice before he returns to the North Pole to make final preparations for his Christmas Eve trek. But where can you catch a glimpse of the jolly old elf to give him a heads up on what you hope to find under the tree this year? Check out our list below for where to spot the Big Man in Red this year. Be sure to double-check each location's website for timing details and reservations to make your visit as easy as possible.
After you have taken your photo and told him your list, make sure to check out all the other great winter activities and events Fairfax County has to offer.
Tysons Corner Center
Through December 24
The magic of the holiday season comes alive with a visit to Santa’s winter wonderland. The Jolly Elf himself will be visiting Tysons Corner Center in a *new location this year* on the lower level near Wasabi. A visit is always free with various photo packages available for purchase. Reservations aren't required but are recommended to reduce your wait time. You can book your reservation here. Pet night events are also scheduled every Monday from November 25 through December 9. On the morning of December 8, you can book your visit with Santa in a sensory-free exclusive atmosphere. Tysons Corner Center also welcomes families to enjoy an intimate and personal experience with Santa, carrying on the beloved 'Breakfast with Santa' tradition.
New this year: Santa is making special appearances at select retail stores throughout the mall! Join him for shopping, workouts, and drinks now through December 20.
Tysons Galleria
Through December 24
Santa will be waiting amongst the luxury retail stores in Tysons Galleria to hear what's on your Christmas list - and to let you know if you've been naughty or nice. Timed slots are going fast, so book your photo time with Santa and create another season of magical moments for you and your family. Reservations are encouraged. Looking for a paws-itively good time? Bring your furry friend and snap a photo with Santa on Mondays and Tuesdays from November 25 through December 10. You can book your reservation here for the most paw-fect pictures! Also coming to the Galleria is Santa Cares Day for sensory-friendly moments on December 8.
Plus, make a special visit to get your gifts wrapped for free, to benefit Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic from December 14 - 24!
Fair Oaks Mall
Through December 24
Family fun awaits as Santa and his elves have set up shop inside Fair Oaks Mall...and they've brought along their magical sleigh. Santa’s Flight Academy provides an innovative holiday photo experience while delivering the magic and tradition of the season. Reservations are available here. Is a Santa photo truly whole without the company of your pet? Absolutely not! Book your pet portraits here to get your picture-perfect photo - only available on December 2. Sensory-friendly visits with Santa are available on December 8.
Also, plan ahead for a free Storytime with Santa event in Center Court of the mall. The kids can cozy up to listen to a reading of "The Night Before Christmas" on November 24 and December 4.
Mosaic District
Through December 24
Santa can be found hanging around Mosaic District (look for him in Angelika Film Center) starting November 29 through December 24. No reservations are necessary, so just bring your patience along with your mobile phone or camera so you can create your own Santa photo experience before you head out shopping. Find out the exact dates/times here. Plan ahead to get into the holiday spirit by getting your visit in early on November 29 so that you can enjoy Mosaic's annual Holiday Tree Lighting & Parade, too!
Springfield Town Center
Through December 24
Good tidings and joy are filling the halls in the Springfield Town Center because Santa is bringing his good juju with him to South County all the way from the North Pole. Digital photos and printed photo packages are available to purchase after the photoshoot is over. Reservations are encouraged, but not required. Pet photos happen every Monday from November 11 through December 16.
