Where To See Santa Around Kingstowne This Christmas Season

KINGSTOWNE, VA — Santa Claus will be back in Kingstowne this holiday season after a couple of years of COVID-19 restrictions that made it difficult for kids to crawl up on his lap and make their case that they’ve been good boys and girls over the last year.

Visits and pictures with Santa are at the heart of many families’ holiday traditions, but the coronavirus pandemic gave them a lump of coal. Malls and other places took social distancing measures in both 2020 and 2021 to help contain the spread of the virus, moving Santa meet-ups largely online.

Virtual visits are still an option in many places, but there’s nothing quite like seeing jolly old St. Nick live and in person. In the Kingstowne area, children have several chances:

• Springfield Town Center: Santa will be available for photos each day through Dec. 24. 6500 Springfield Mall, Springfield, VA 22150. Extended hours from Dec. 9-24. Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 23, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Dec. 24, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Pet Photos with Santa at Springfield Town Center: Pet photos available every Monday until Christmas. 6500 Springfield Mall, Springfield, VA 22150.
• Santa & Mrs. Claus: Santa & Mrs. Claus are coming to the Rose Hill McDonald's at 6020 Rose Hill Dr. in Alexandria on Tuesday, Dec. 6 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Meet & Greets with Santa: The events will be held in the banquet hall at the Burke Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department fire station from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 7 and Wednesday, Dec. 14.
• Pancakes with Santa: The event will be held on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the banquet hall at Fire and Rescue Department fire station. Breakfast will include pancakes, sausage, fruit, coffee, hot chocolate, and juice. A ticket is required for all, regardless of age. The public should visit the fire department’s Pancakes with Santa page for details and to purchase tickets.

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