CELEBRATE THE SIGHTS, SOUNDS AND SALES OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON AT THE ARBORETUM STARTING WITH SANTA'S ARRIVAL ON NOVEMBER 21

Santa Claus is coming to The Arboretum on Saturday, November 21, to usher in the sights, sounds and sales of the busy holiday shopping season. Shoppers will soon benefit from extended holiday hours and more savings opportunities with a variety of sales and promotional offers at Austin’s most popular open-air marketplace.

Shoppers will gobble-up the deals as The Arboretum extends its hours for Black Friday. The mall will be open from 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. on Black Friday, November 27, giving early bird shoppers a head start for this year’s holiday season.

According to the National Retail Federation, sales in November and December are expected to increase a solid 3.7 percent to $630.7 billion — significantly higher than the 10-year average of 2.5 percent. The 2014 holiday season rang up a hefty $616.1 billion in U.S. sales, 4 percent more than the previous year.

“The Arboretum is ready to welcome families who will benefit from our extended shopping hours and great sales from nationally recognized and locally owned retailers,” said Tami Benton, mall manager at The Arboretum. “We are encouraged by the national retail projections and look forward to shoppers taking advantage of our popular selection of stores, holiday festivities and charitable initiatives as they complete their holiday gift list.”

This year, The Arboretum is pleased to present the following enchanting holiday happenings:

Santa’s Arrival, Saturday, November 21 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

The yearly tradition includes a horse-drawn carriage leading the way as the big man in red makes his debut for the season. During the event, attendees will enjoy writing letters to Santa, decorating Bundt cakes and live entertainment, including holiday performances and an appearance by the Red Hatter.

The Santa Photo Experience

As a kick-off to the season, eager children and their families can experience the joy and magic of the holiday season with the Santa Photo Experience between Amy’s Ice Cream and Restoration Hardware. Santa will be available for photos on property on the following days from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.:

· November 27 – 29

· December 5 – 6

· December 12 – 13

· December 19 – 20

· Thursday, December 24

Breakfast with Santa, Saturday, December 12 from 9 a.m. – Noon

Families will have the opportunity to meet Santa and enjoy a host of fun activities during this event featuring a light sack breakfast* from Corner Bakery, a balloon artist, face painting, a special appearance by the Peppermint Princess and holiday music.

Throughout the holiday events, shoppers can find a gift for everyone on their list at The Arboretum’s selection of specialty stores. Top retailers include Chico’s, Barnes & Noble, Gap, francesca’s, Janie and Jack, Pottery Barn and The Walking Company. The Arboretum also offers dining options, including Zoe’s Kitchen, The Cheesecake Factory and Brio Tuscan Grille.

For a complete list of holiday hours, special events and retailers, please visit www.thearboretum.com.

*While supplies last

About The Arboretum

The Arboretum, Austin’s most popular open-air marketplace with popular retail and dining options, is home to well-known retailers such as Chico’s, Barnes & Noble, Gap, Francesca’s, Janie and Jack, Pottery Barn and The Walking Company. Shoppers can dine al fresco at exciting eateries such as Zoe’s Kitchen, The Cheesecake Factory and Brio Tuscan Grille. Located at 10000 Research Blvd., Austin, TX 78759, The Arboretum is open seven days a week; Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. and Sunday from noon – 6 p.m. For more information on The Arboretum, please call (512) 338-4755 or visit www.thearboretum.com. Like us on Facebook facebook.com/ArboretumAustin and follow us on Twitter @ArboretumTX and on Instagram @ArboretumTX.

About WP GLIMCHER

WP Glimcher (NYSE: WPG) is a retail REIT and a recognized leader in the ownership, management, acquisition and development of retail properties, including mixed use, open-air and enclosed regional malls, as well as community centers. WP Glimcher owns and manages 121 shopping centers totaling more than 68 million square feet diversified by size, geography and tenancy. To learn more, visit wpglimcher.com.