Seasonal & Holidays

Santa Returns To Mills At Jersey Gardens And You Can Sit On His Lap

For the first time since last year due to the COVID pandemic, children can now sit on Santa's lap. Santa's helpers will still wear masks.

ELIZABETH, NJ — The big man himself, Santa Claus is returning to The Mills at Jersey Gardens. And for the first time since last year, families can meet him up close and sit on his lap.

Last year due to the coronavirus pandemic, Santa wore a mask and lap-sitting was not prohibited.

Santa's visit is part of the Simon Santa Photo Experience. Santa arrives on Thursday, Nov. 18 and will be available until Christmas Eve.

Find out what's happening in Scotch Plains-Fanwoodfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Things to know before you go:

  • Reservations are encouraged. To make a reservation click here.
  • Families may choose to sit with Santa or maintain social distance.
  • Santa’s helpers will wear masks throughout the duration of each visit.

The Santa Photo Experience launches on Thursday, Nov. 18 and will be open daily. Set hours vary and can be found by clicking here.

Find out what's happening in Scotch Plains-Fanwoodfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here. Don't miss local and statewide announcements. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.