Too early? Too bad.
Santa Claus is here.
In his yearly attempt to knock Thanksgiving from its roost, Santa is making it even easier to get into the holiday spirit before turkey day.
This year, you can RSVP.
Starting today, you can visit Santa Claus at the Tucson Mall, 4500 N. Oracle Road. But if that’s too far to drive, no worries. Park Place mall, 5870 E. Broadway, will start hosting the big guy Friday, Nov. 13.
In partnership with WorldWide Photography, both malls now offer an option that allows parents to RSVP and skip the lines if they purchase a photo package in advance.
“As you enter into the holidays, it can get stressful and chaotic,” said Brighid Brown, a marketing manager for both malls through General Growth Properties, Inc. “We hope to find ways to make it less stressful and more exciting.”
Customers can go online to mysantaexperience.com and select the date and time slot they wish to meet Santa. When not on sale, the two photo packages listed on the website cost $49.98 and $72.97, respectively. Both include digital downloads, prints and online credit. The more expensive package comes with 20 greeting cards. Early booking discounts may bring down the prices.
To make a reservation, customers must purchase a photo package. Personal cameras are discouraged, Brown said.
The malls are also hosting a Sensitive Santa meet-and-greet for children with autism or sensory disorders. From 10 a.m. to noon on Sunday, Nov. 22, at Park Place and Sunday, Dec. 6, at the Tucson Mall, Santa will tone down the winter wonderland for children who need a quieter experience.
“We will keep the music and lights down and just promote a calming atmosphere,” Brown said. “If the children need something to play with in line, we will have some toys available to hold their interest.”
Apparently, Santa is also an animal lover and University of Arizona fan.
On Mondays, starting Nov. 16 through Dec. 14, families can bring their fur-children for pet nights from 6 p.m. to close — provided Fido stays on a leash or in a carrier, Brown said.
Then from 6 p.m. to close on Tuesday, Dec. 1 at the Tucson Mall and Thursday, Dec. 3 at Park Place, Santa will add some blue to his all-red uniform.
“Santa dresses up in UA gear, and we invite the public to come out in their UA gear to have photos,” Brown said, noting foam fingers and props will also be available.
And for those who want to skip the lines without the official RSVP and photo package, Brown recommends visiting Santa in November or early December during the morning hours. Santa begins taking visitors at 11 a.m. Monday through Saturday and noon Sunday. Hours may change.
Maybe just skip the turkey and go for the milk and cookies after all.
For more information and to make a reservation, visit parkplacemall.com or tucsonmall.com.
