Santa sets up shop in the Bay area
File photo of Santa (Courtesy Matti Mattila on Flickr)
TAMPA (FOX 13) - Pack up the pumpkins and bust out the jingle bells. Santa Claus has come to town.
Old St. Nick has set up shop in at least three Bay area malls, with more to follow as the holiday season gets under way.
As of November 6, children and families have the chance to have their photos taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Westfield Brandon and Westfield Citrus Park- both through December 24- and at International Plaza through December 23.
All three malls are also offering pet photo days; the Westfield locations on November 29 and December 6, and International Plaza on November 15 and 22.
The following links offer more information on each mall’s Santa festivities:
-Westfield Brandon
- Family Santa photos
- Pet Santa photos (<- scroll to the bottom of the page)
-Westfield Citrus Park
- Family Santa photos
- Pet Santa photos (<- scroll to the bottom of the page)
-International Plaza
There will also be several sensory-friendly places where children with autism or other disabilities can go to meet Santa.
One in particular is the Ferguson Law Center on North Tampa Street. Their event will take place on December 5, and will allow children to meet with Santa one-on-one, in a small space with natural lighting and low noise.
The number of families is limited, so be sure to visit their website to register ahead of time.