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. Holiday shopping events are listed in order of opening date.
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.
Most malls are hosting contact-free photos with Santa in 2021. There are also special Pet Nights so your furry friend can get a pic with the big guy. Reservations and masks are generally required. Follow the links for reservations and rules. Photos below are from prior years.
Find the perfect gift: Virginia Gift Guide for Residents and Visitors Who LoveVAÂ
Tysons Galleria, Tysons, Nov 18 – Dec 24
Capture the perfect Christmas photo when you visit with Santa. Extend your visit with a Ritz-Carlton staycation for extra fun and easy access to the Galleria.
Springfield Town Center Santa Photos, Springfield, Nov 6 – Dec 24
A real-bearded Santa will be back in the Grand Court for holiday photos (closed Thanksgiving). Reservations are required and ew safety measures are in place. Follow the link to schedule your time with the big guy.
Dulles Town Center, Dulles, Nov 12 – Dec 24
Take your own free photos at the festive setting in Center Court. Kids can also talk to Santa or leave a letter in his mailbox.
Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax, Nov 12 – Dec 24
Kids can step inside Santa's 22-foot tall sleigh and experience magical snowfall before the big pic.
Potomac Mills, Springfield, Nov 18 – Dec 24
Santa and his helpers are setting up a socially distanced experience this year where you can capture the perfect holiday photo.
Tysons Corner Center, Tysons Corner, November 1 – December 24
Santa returns to the Fashion Court, at the intersection of the Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's wings, on November 12. 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.
Mosaic District, Merrifield, Santa Photos, Nov 27 – Dec 23
During the 2021 holiday shopping season, Santa will be at the Target atrium. Mosaic District is fun for families and also makes a great Girls Night Out destination. Enjoy a nice selection of unique shops and plenty of restaurants for a break from the deals. We love Mosaic's quirky holiday decor including lounging reindeer throughout the district and a big Christmas tree on the green (lighting Nov 26).
Fairfax Corner, Fairfax, No Santa Photos
Santa won't be visiting Fairfax Corner this year, but you can still shop and see the festive decorations and murals.
Reston Town Center, Reston, No Santa Photos
The annual holiday celebration and parade return on Nov 26, 2021. Capture your own photos at the big tree by the fountain. The popular ice skating rink under the Pavilion opens in early November so reserve your time on the ice.
Explore more 11 Fun DC and Northern Virginia Ice Skating Rinks.
Manassas Mall, Manassas, Nov 26 – Dec 24
Santa is back at the Manassas Mall for photos in 2021. Santa is available Thursday to Sunday for walk-up visits.
Things are a little different in 2021, but 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 Area
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