Updated on November 10, 2024 by Julie McCool
Enjoy holiday shopping and capture perfect Santa photos at Northern Virginia shopping centers with sparkly trees and special deals to brighten the season. We've rounded up the details from Northern Virginia malls that are decked out for family-friendly holiday fun throughout the season.
There are also plenty of opportunities to shop local at Washington DC area holiday markets. Find your fun with our guide: Favorite Holiday Markets in Northern Virginia and the DC Region.
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Holiday shopping events are listed in order of 2024 opening date. Most Santa photo opportunities open in November and run until December 24. There are also special Pet Nights so your furry friend can get a pic with the big guy. Reservations may be required; follow the links for reservations and rules.
Find unique gifts in our Virginia Gift Guide for Residents and Visitors Who LoveVA
Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax, Nov 7-Dec 24
Kids can step inside Santa's Flight Academy and experience magical snowfall before the big pic. Pet nights are November 18 and December 2.
Tysons Corner Center, Tysons Corner, Nov 7-Dec 24
Santa returns to the Fashion Court, at the intersection of the Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's wings. He and his elves will provide a memorable experience, so reserve your spot now.
If time allows, stop by the Tysons Corner Plaza to see the 50-foot decorated tree.
Returning in 2024, the DC Winter Lantern Festival lights up a short walk from the Tysons Corner Mall. This beautiful walk-through light display includes lots of interactive fun and stunning lantern sculptures to dazzle the whole family.
Dulles Town Center, Dulles, Nov 8-Dec 24
Santa Photos return to Center Court at Dulles Town Center where kids can sit with the big guy and share their Christmas wishes (closed Thanksgiving). Pet photo nights are Dec 2, 9, 16. Kids can also leave a letter in Santa's mailbox.
Springfield Town Center, Springfield, Nov 9-Dec 24
Santa will be back in the Grand Court for holiday photos (closed Thanksgiving). Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times. Family Pet Photos with Santa are available every Monday until Dec 16.
While you're there, treat the kids with a visit to the LEGO Discovery Center at Springfield Town Center.
Tysons Galleria, Tysons, Nov 14-Dec 24
Capture the perfect Christmas photo when you visit with Santa. Monday and Tuesday are Pet Nights from Nov 25 to Dec 10. Extend your visit with a Ritz-Carlton staycation for extra fun and easy access to the Galleria.
Potomac Mills, Springfield, Nov 22-Dec 24
Santa and his helpers are back for festive holiday photos. Sensory-friendly night is Dec 8.
Mosaic District, Merrifield, Nov 29-Dec 24
Santa returns to the Target Atrium for select days. Bring the family and allow time to check out Mosaic's quirky holiday decor including lounging reindeer and a big Christmas tree on the green (tree lighting Nov 29).
Reston Town Center, Reston, Nov 29
See Santa and Mrs. Claus when the annual holiday celebration and parade return on Nov 29, 2024. Capture your own photos at the big tree by the fountain. The popular ice skating rink under the Pavilion opens in November so reserve your time on the ice.
Explore more Fun DC and Northern Virginia Ice Skating Rinks.
Manassas Mall, Manassas, Dec 1 – 24
Get your visit and photos with Santa at the Manassas Mall daily in December.
Santa is back at many area malls in 2024 and we're happy to see so much holiday fun returning to local shopping centers.
Find more local holiday events and celebrations:
- Fun Holiday Favorites from Northern Virginia Experts
- Favorite Holiday Markets in Northern Virginia and the DC Region
- Holiday Lights in the Northern Virginia and Washington DC Area
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