Where To See Santa Near West Orange This Christmas Season

WEST ORANGE, NJ — Visits and pictures with Santa Claus are treasured traditions for many West Orange families.

In West Orange, kids have several chances to see jolly old St. Nick in person for 2024. Here are a few places, according to a municipal advisory:

Holiday Open House - Saturday, Dec. 7

• Character Breakfast - Washington Street Cafeteria 9 am to noon. Reservations and pricing available at DowntownWO.com
• Pictures with Santa and Activities for All Ages - Washington School Gym from 10 am to 3 pm. Bring your phone or camera and take pictures with Santa.
• Magic Show by Doug Shaller - Washington School Gym at 3 pm
• Guided Tours with Mayor McCartney & Township Officials - 10 am to 3:15 pm. Tours run every 45 minutes, last tour is at 3:15 pm
• Stuffed Animal Workshop - 11 am to 3 pm at Washington School. $15 per person. Reservations suggested as space is limited. Reservations available at DowntownWO.com

Christmas Tree Lighting - Saturday, Dec. 7

Festivities begin at 4:30 pm with the opening of the Holiday Petting Zoo, Trackless Train Ride and photo opportunities with various characters. Mayor McCartney will offer season's greetings, there will be performances by the Unique Performance Arts Center and the duo of Lynette Sheard and Fran Testa. The evening is capped off with the lighting of the Township Christmas tree and arrival of Santa. Following Santa's arrival, attendees will have the opportunity to visit Santa and take a picture with Santa. Please remember to bring a camera to take your own pictures with Santa.

SANTA AT THE MALL

Santa is also holding court at several shopping malls in the local area, including:

Short Hills Mall – Guests can make a reservation to meet Santa for a picture-perfect moment at The Mall At Short Hills. There will also be an interactive adventure at Santa's Flight Academy featuring a 22-foot-tall sleigh. Hours vary by day and week. See a complete list of hours here and learn more about making a reservation and photo packages online. Families are also invited to a special sensory-friendly Santa experience on Dec. 8 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in Grand Court. Reserve a spot online.

Willowbrook Mall – Santa arrived at Willowbrook Mall on Nov. 7 and will be there through Dec. 24. Book early to ensure your spot to see Santa. Hours vary by day and week. See a complete list of hours and make your reservation online. Pet photos will also be available on select Mondays and Tuesdays. A sensory-friendly event is also planned on Dec. 8 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Reservations are required.

This article contains reporting from the Patch national desk

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