You’ve just recovered from your sugar coma from Halloween and now Thanksgiving, Black Friday shopping and the unpredictability of tree decorating with kiddos hopped up on peppermint hot chocolate and dreams are about to begin. We say, take a deep breath, head to Westfield Garden State Plaza mall to check out the GREAT BIG SANTA and meet the very real looking Santa (who is flown in annually), grab some eats and hit up all of your favorite shops for your holiday list.
Wait, what?
You heard right. This holiday season, Westfield Garden State Plaza is celebrating the return of its legendary, iconic “Big Santa” display. The new 45-foot-tall, illuminated Big Santa – replete with his size 90 boots – will be located adjacent to Nordstrom (at entrance #7) and will be visible from both Route 17 and Route 4.To welcome “Big Santa’s” return, Westfield Garden State Plaza will host a lighting celebration on Thursday, November 15th, from 4pm to 7pm, in the parking lot outside entrance 7 (adjacent to Nordstrom and Design Within Reach). The entire community is invited to join the countdown to the official lighting of the beloved “big guy” and celebrate the beginning of the holiday season. Guests are encouraged to get their early and munch on treats from faves like House of Cupcakes and Johnny Zeppoli while they listen to holiday music from local marching bands and watch a very real looking Santa arrive by Fire Truck, ready to meet & greet the kiddos post- event. You can RSVP to the event for a chance to win a $500 gift card to shop the whole mall.
If you're planning on meeting Santa at the pavillion in the mall, make a reservation for your photo session - Text SANTA874 to 39711, or visit CelebrateYourHoliday.com so you won’t have to stand in line with fidgety littles in uncomfortable clothes praying that they won’t mess up their hair. All you have to do is reserve your day and time online, pick your photo package, pay in advance and print your confirmation. Show up to Macy’s Court, Level 2 at the appointed time and you’ll be able to get the perfect pic, power through your gift buying and still have time to bake (and decorate!) those cookies you saw on Pinterest.
With 3 easily convenient valet parking locations (2 of which are covered) – finding a parking spot during the holiday season is never an issue. And what about the yearly game of “How many bags can I hang off the stroller handles before I tip the thing?” Westfield Garden State Plaza has you covered. Take advantage of their Concierge services where you can check your coat and packages and they will store them safely until your shopping is complete. You’ll be able to treat your kids to lunch and a trip to the new play space unencumbered. Have a question while shopping? Simply text an Elf at 201.957.7655 and get your question answered on the spot. With service like this, it really is the most wonderful time of the year!
Santa is in town November 16th through December 24th, Monday through Saturday, 10am – 9pm. Dasher, Dancer and the gang get fed twice a day, from 1pm – 2pm and from 5pm – 6pm daily. *Closed Thanksgiving, November 22 *December 8, 15, 22 hours are 9am - 9pm, with a break from 1pm – 2pm and 5pm to 6pm. *December 24 hours are 9am – 6pm with a break from 2pm – 3pm. Please check the website for details.
Westfield Garden State Plaza One Garden State Plaza, Paramus 201.843.2121
