Visits With Santa At Issaquah Commons To Be Socially Distanced

ISSAQUAH, WA — The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has impacted nearly every aspect of life since beginning in March and the upcoming holiday season will be no different – including how local residents able able to interact with an annual visitor.

Santa will make his regular visit to his winter chalet at Issaquah Commons (705-975 NW Gilman Blvd.) beginning the day after Thanksgiving. But because of restrictions put in place because of the pandemic, how area families spend time with the jolly old elf to ensure the safety of everyone has become a matter of personal preference.

Photos with Santa will be an option, but pictures will be taken at a socially distanced space of six feet. Because the health and safety of Issaquah Commons tenants, visitors and employees is the top priority at the facility, everyone – Santa included – will be required to wear face-coverings and must maintain a 6 feet of distance during in-person photo sessions. To cut down on wait times, reservations for photos will be strongly recommended although walk-up appointments will be accommodated as time and space allow. Reservations can be made by clicking here.

In addition, visits with Santa can also take place virtually by visiting the Issaquah Commons website. Options for virtual storytelling sessions are also available as are virtual pet photos with Santa. Virtual visits and photo opportunities can be set up by clicking here.

The schedule is as follows:

Photos with Santa: Nov. 27-Dec. 24

11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday

11 a.m.-6 p.m.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 24

Closed: Nov. 30 and Dec. 7

Virtual Santa photos: Nov. 12-Dec. 24.