Santa is coming to town and bringing his reindeer for their annual holiday visit to Gresham Station Shopping Center! We’ll be hosting complimentary photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus on December 5, 12, 17, and 18 by reservation only. The free Reindeer Meet & Greet event will be on December 17 and 18 from 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm in the fenced area at 1064 Norman Ave., giving you an opportunity to take photos, ask questions, and have some fun! No registration is necessary to see the reindeer. Visitors are welcome to complimentary hot cider or hot cocoa, selfie stations, crafts, letters to Santa, and so much more!
We ask that you bring a canned food item to donate to SnowCap Community Charities’ “Fill A Bag” campaign. Fill-A-Bag is the largest annual food drive to benefit SnowCap Community Charities. Kicking off on in early November and spearheaded by Riverview Community Bank and Gresham Ford, individuals and local businesses in our community join forces to undertake this outstanding effort for the needy in East Multnomah County. Click here to read more about SnowCap’s “Fill A Bag” and see their most needed items.
For the safety of our community and staff, we will continue to practice social distancing at this year’s event. Santa is committed to spreading cheer, not germs, so the beloved tradition of sitting on Santa’s knee will be put on hold this year. With a few photography tricks and creative alternatives, our professional photographer can still capture special memories chatting with Santa. Masks are not required this year, but are recommended. Please arrive at the event space 5 minutes before your appointment start time.
Your family photo will be available to download on the Gresham Station Facebook page a few days after your visit.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Due to Covid, there have been several changes to the way this event operates to incorporate safety protocols – but our goal is still to provide your family with a wonderful experience!
Q: What exactly is a contact-free in person experience?
A: Children will have no physical contact with Santa. Santa will still be in the photos and will still be able to chat with the children and hear their wishes, but there will be no physical contact. This includes sitting on Santa’s lap, hugging Santa, etc. Parents should be prepared to hold babies and young children (in general, this would include 2 years and younger) who can’t sit by themselves, while photo is being taken. Santa and photographers will not be able to assist with holding and positioning your child due to social distancing. If your child needs something in their hands, please bring it with you and have it be something you won’t mind having in a photo. Parents, we ask that you please have this discussion with your children prior to arrival so that everyone knows exactly what to expect.
Q: Is my family required to wear a mask?
A: No, masks are not required at this time, however this could change with local regulations. We recommend wearing a mask for your own safety and the safety of others.
Q: How will the photos look?
A: We will be using a set similar to last year, feel free to look at the photos from 2021 on our Facebook page.
Q: Where is Santa located at Gresham Station Shopping Center?
A: Santa will be located in the same suite as the Halloween festivities at 1064 Norman Ave, Gresham, OR 97030.
Q: Why are visits with Santa by appointment only?
A: Appointments are truly the best way to offer a stress-free experience for all visitors. In addition, this year appointments will help us keep families socially distanced and our guests and staff safe during the experience. Appointments also decrease the amount of time your family will spend waiting in line.
Q: What do I do when I arrive for my appointment?
A: Proceed to the photo area and wait in line. The host will ensure your family gets through the line and gets a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and then you can explore our other activities and offerings.
Q: Can I just show up and wait in line to see Santa?
A: No. Reservations must be made in advance through the online booking system. We expect this to be a popular event and reservation booking will be based on availability.
Q: What if my child gets sick?
A: PLEASE DO NOT BRING YOUR CHILD OR ANY FAMILY MEMBER THAT IS SHOWING SYMPTOMS OF ILLNESS OF ANY KIND. If your child or any member of your party is sick or has been exposed to COVID-19, please reschedule your appointment. If all appointments are sold out, there may not be an opportunity to reschedule sick children.
Q: Can pets visit Santa?
A: Unfortunately, pets are not allowed to visit with Santa this year.
Q: Are there restrooms at the photo area?
A: Restrooms will not be available to the public during visits with Santa.
Q: Can we use our personal camera or video recorder when we visit Santa?
A: You are welcome to take pictures with your cell phone and personal photo/video devices.
Q: How do I reschedule/cancel my appointment?
A: At this time, this feature is unavailable. Please only book a time slot that you will be able to attend or reach out to our team at marketing@schnitzerproperties.com for assistance/special accommodations.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Santa and his elves are doing everything they can to make your Santa photo experience magical and safe.