Now that fall is turning into winter, families want to see Santa and gear up for the Christmas season! It can be a wonderful experience for families, and we have the best spots to check out! Everything from an entire village of fun to being able to dine with the holiday couple. So come with us, and let’s check out the fun you can have this holiday season.
Lloyd Center has a unique take on Santa photos because this Santa is sensory-friendly. Many children who have been diagnosed with Autism would love to be able to go and take pictures like other kids, but they can’t because the malls are loud, there are tons of people, and it can be overwhelming. This center, however, offers after-hours options for the children, and the music is soft and sweet. The lights are also dimmed, and the elves have been instructed to make their movements smaller. This way, no one has a negative experience, and your child can still see Santa. It’s been a great staple in the community because it’s touched parents that they don’t have to miss out on the fun.
Pioneer Place has a few options you can take this holiday season. You can book pictures with Santa or take photos with your pets and have them dress up like Santa. It’s a terrific way to let kids have fun with their fur babies and have an exciting time. They also have a special day that is made sensory-friendly. Each of their experiences promises to unite families and let them experience the wonder of the holidays.
Here comes Santa, and he’s coming in a big way. Bridgeport Village has five events, and they are all dedicated to letting your little one meet the jolly man himself. You can check out the arrival parage with Santa and his wife, their North Pole counterparts, and you’ll see areas for kids to learn about arts and crafts and other fun activities! There are also visits with Santa that you can do throughout November and December, including sensory Santa visits where it’s quiet and far less busy. Mrs. Claus is also there to help ease your children into the photos during this time.
If you want to play with your furry best friend, they have a Santa Paws event, too, and you can have fun next to the gingerbread cottage near the theater. The last event that they have is Mrs. Claus’s story time. It will take place in the bookstore, but after the event, you can join Mrs. Claus and her friends for a meet and greet! It’s a great way to meet the other characters that make up the holiday season.
The wonder of the holidays is in full swing here. You get to visit Santa’s wonderland. The visit is free, but you’ll have to pay for photos. Like others on this list, there are unique events, including a photo with pets, sensory time, and story time, but Washington Square has something that makes it more special: the Breakfast with Santa options. By going to their site, you can also schedule a personalized phone call from Santa! This is an area that goes all out to ensure that your children have the best time!
Black Santa PDX is a local Portland tradition that aims to build a sense of community each season. They have signups ready, and you must book your spot in advance. They also have options for parties and other events. This Santa is known for being sweet and kind and always making kids laugh and smile. They also have incredible decorations as he’ll sit in front of an inflatable globe and wait for the children to arrive. It’s a genuinely sweet experience.
Things To Consider
We recommend booking your time in advance if you want to see Santa with your children this holiday. There are going to be hundreds of families that want to see the same events that you are, and it can get extremely crowded. If you have a little one who gets overwhelmed easily, you can see that there are options on this list to include them, but you should still book in advance to ensure they have the easiest time possible. With that in mind, take your family to a winter wonderland like no other and have fun!
Jenifer Dale is a writer that has a passion for reading and helping others. When she is not writing, she loves cooking, crocheting, and spending time with her family.