Santa Has Landed In Galleria, Now Awaiting Good Boys And Girls

HOUSTON, TX — Eager children and their families can experience the joy and magic of the holiday season with a visit to the Simon Santa Photo Experience at The Galleria beginning Friday and going until Christmas Eve. Children can whisper wishes and capture photo memories with Santa beginning on Level One, Adidas Court.

Save time, avoid the line with Santa by Appointment! Now you can reserve your magical moment with Santa online at http://simonsanta.com.

"One of the great traditions of holiday shopping at The Galleria is the annual family visit to the Simon Santa Photo Experience," said Chris Lane, director of mall marketing at The Galleria. "I know Santa can’t wait to greet children bringing him their holiday wishes."

The Galleria also provides children with special needs and their families with an opportunity to enjoy this time-honored holiday tradition through sensory-friendly Caring Santa events in partnership with Autism Speaks. These private photo sessions exclusively for families of children with special needs will take place on Sunday, Nov. 19 and Sunday, Dec. 23, from 8:30-10:30 a.m. prior to opening. Guests must register in advance at simon.com/caringsanta.

For local pet owners, the popular Pet Photo Nights with Santa will occur on Sunday, Nov. 12 and Sunday, Dec. 10 from 7-8 p.m. Many pet owners view their pet as an integral member of the family and are just as committed in caring for their pets as their "human" family members. Pet Photo nights are hosted after regular mall closing at the properties and the set gets an extensive cleaning following the event to remove any potential risk to allergy sufferers. Reservations can be secured at simon.com/petphoto.

Shopper appreciation programs will take place throughout the holiday season at The Galleria, including:

On the weekends, the sounds of holiday music will be heard throughout The Galleria. Listen as harpists, carolers and local school choirs perform holiday classics, plus other entertainment groups will be onsite to perform festive routines admired by all.

The Galleria will also offer giftwrapping for a cause select weekends throughout the season benefitting various local nonprofits. After finding gifts for loved ones, shoppers are encouraged to stop by the wrapping location in Galleria IV near the Santa Set to help make a difference.

Additionally, The Galleria encourages shoppers to help make Christmas brighter for those in need through their Salvation Army Angel Tree program, accepting donations Nov. 10 through Dec. 20 on Level 2 near The Little Galleria Play Area.

Photo by Joe Raedle/Newsmakers via Getty Images