When Does Santa Arrive At Shopping Malls Across Tampa Bay, Miami?

TAMPA BAY, FL — It's already beginning to look a lot like Christmas at shopping malls and shopping centers across Florida’s Tampa Bay and areas starting this weekend.

Santa arrived as early as Nov. 7 and will be available until Christmas Eve.

Hours vary for Santa photo experiences throughout the season at each location. Reservations are encouraged.

Some malls also host special photoshoots with Santa for children with special needs, including those in need of a sensory-friendly experience, and have pet photo opportunities.

Brandon Exchange, Brandon: Visit Santa Nov. 21 through Dec. 24. Hours vary. Pet photos are available Nov. 24 and Dec. 1, 5 to 7 p.m.

Countryside Mall, Clearwater: Photos with Santa will be taken from Nov. 10 through Dec. 24. Hours vary.

Gulf View Square, Port Richey: Take photos with Santa Dec. 5-24. Hours vary.

International Plaza and Bay Street, Tampa: Santa’s Flight Academy, which offers pictures with Santa, as well as an interactive flight experience, is open Nov. 7 through Dec. 24. Hours vary.

Lakeland Square Mall: Visit Santa Nov. 21 through Dec. 24. Hours vary. Sensory-friendly photoshoots will take place Dec. 7, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., and pet photos are available Dec. 15, 5 to 7 p.m.

The Shops at Wiregrass, Wesley Chapel: Photos with Santa will be taken Nov. 8 through Dec. 24. Hours vary. Pet photoshoots with Santa are available Mondays, 4 to 7 pm., Nov. 10 through Dec. 15.

Tyrone Square, St. Petersburg: The Santa Photo Experience is open Nov. 21 through Dec. 24. Hours vary.

University Town Center, Sarasota: Santa’s Flight Academy, which offers pictures with Santa, as well as an interactive flight experience, is open Nov. 7 through Dec. 24. Hours vary.

Westshore Plaza, Tampa: Take photos and visit with Santa Nov. 26 through Dec. 24. Hours vary. Bring your furry friends for a photo with Santa during the Dec. 1 and 8 Paws & Claus events from 6 to 8 p.m.

Here are some Miami area malls to visit, courtesy of Munchkin Fun Miami:

Bass Pro Shops & Cabela’s: Make Your free Santa Photo Reservation Up to 7 Days in Advance. Advance reservations are required in all locations and can go quickly. Check the website for timeslot availability.

Dadeland Mall: Reserve your photos with Santa today. Santa arrives in mid-November and will be here through Dec. 24.

Dolphin Mall: Santa photos are open Nov 22-Dec 24. Reservations are limited, walk-up visits are welcome. Santa speaks both Spanish and English at this location. Book a Signature Santa visit for a private 15-minute photo shoot. Limited time only.

The Falls: Santa arrives in Center Court in late November. Bring the entire family to enjoy festive activities including cookie decorating, crafts, entertainment, and snowfall. And, of course, a special visit from Santa himself.

InterContinental Miami: As part of their Winter Wonderland holiday event schedule, the hotel is hosting Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 13, from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. It’s a perfect chance for Christmas travelers staying at the hotel while they visit family in Miami.

Miami International Mall: Visit the Santa Photo Experience sponsored by Cheryl’s Cookies and Harry & David. This store is expected to open late November. The closest entrance is by LensCrafters.

Westland Mall: Take photos with Santa. Pet photos are also available on select Mondays from 4-7pm. Pets get a free holiday gift and treats. While supplies lasts. Sensory friendly Santa photos are available on select dates.