Where To See Santa In Wayne This Christmas Season

WAYNE, NJ — Santa Claus is coming to Wayne this holiday season after a couple of years of COVID-19 restrictions that made it difficult for kids to crawl up on his lap and make their case that they’ve been good over the last year.

Visits and pictures with Santa are at the heart of many families’ holiday traditions, but the coronavirus pandemic gave them a lump of coal. Malls and other places took social distancing measures in both 2020 and 2021 to help contain the spread of the virus, moving Santa meet-ups largely online.

Virtual visits are still an option in many places, but there’s nothing quite like seeing jolly old St. Nick live and in person. In Wayne, kids have several chances:

Willowbrook Mall

Through Dec. 24; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12-6 p.m. Sunday.

Kris Kringle has already settled into his spot at the Willowbrook Mall — the Bloomingdale's Exhibit Court.

The mall will also hold sensory-friendly hours for people with special needs, along with photo opportunities for pets.

Santa will accept walk-ups, but click here to make a reservation. Reservations are required for the sensory-friendly hours. Read more: Santa Claus Is Coming To Wayne's Willowbrook Mall

Our Lady of the Valley Roman Catholic Church

Father Rugel Hall, 630 Valley Rd.; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 27

Knights of Columbus Council #6354 welcomes Santa Claus. The free event will feature photo opportunities, light refreshments, Christian music and children's activities.

JC Penney

See dates and times.

JC Penney at Wayne Towne Center is giving families more opportunities to get Santa photos. The company is holding Santa events at its stores through Dec. 18, but participation and event dates vary by location.

See the link above to set up a time, or call 973-785-0883 for a same-day appointment.

Snacks with Santa at Dave & Busters

310 Willowbrook Mall; 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Dec. 4

Santa Claus will visit Dave & Busters for the Holiday Game Blow Out Party. Tickets are available for kids of any age. Tickets cost $59.99 plus tax before Thanksgiving but will increase to $69.99 plus tax.

Ride With Santa

Wayne/Route 23 Transit Center, Route 23 Southbound and West Belt Parkway

Tickets are sold out, but you can get on the waiting list. The hour-long, holiday-themed ride will get every child on the train a chance to meet Santa.