Santa Returns to Willowbrook Mall: A Merry Must-Do for Houston Families This Holiday Season
The most wonderful time of the year just got a little more magical at Willowbrook Mall. Santa Claus will soon land in Houston and will be ready to meet kids (and kids-at-heart) starting November 21, 2025 through December 24, 2025, at the JCPenney Court inside the mall. Whether you're continuing a long-held family tradition or starting a new one, the "Where is Santa?" experience, brought to Willowbrook by Cherry Hill Programs, makes it easy—and joyful—to capture a picture-perfect holiday moment.
Walk-ups are welcome daily, but booking online is highly encouraged for a smoother visit. The photo sessions are scheduled in 15-minute time blocks, with multiple families welcomed during each window, keeping things moving without losing the magic.
A Time-Honored Tradition
Long before smartphones and social media, mall Santa visits were a rite of passage for children during the holidays. From department store window displays in the 1800s to colorfully lit mall sets today, the tradition has endured across generations. What once began as a simple meet-and-greet has transformed into a cherished event—complete with keepsake photos, meaningful conversations, and wide-eyed wonder.
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At Willowbrook Mall, that tradition continues with a modern twist: digital perks, online bookings, and themed nights that bring even more joy to the experience.
Santa’s Photo Schedule at Willowbrook Mall
Santa will be available for photos nearly every day through Christmas Eve, with hours expanding closer to the holiday. Here's a quick look at the schedule:
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Nov. 21 – Dec. 13: Varies from 2 PM–7 PM on weekdays and up to 8 PM on weekends
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Dec. 14 – 23: Extended hours from 10 AM–9 PM most days
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Christmas Eve (Dec. 24): 9 AM–6 PM for those last-minute magical moments
Photos take place in the JCPenney Court.
Pet Nights: Bring Your Four-Legged Family Members
If your pets are part of the holiday magic (and let’s be honest—of course they are), you’re in luck. Willowbrook Mall is hosting Pet Nights every Monday and Tuesday from November 24 through December 16. Pet photos run from 4 PM to 7 PM (with extended hours on Dec. 15 and 16 until 9 PM), giving families plenty of time to capture those adorable holiday moments with their furry companions.
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Perks of Booking Online
For those who reserve their visit ahead of time, Cherry Hill Programs is offering a sleigh-full of digital goodies and time-saving benefits, including:
- 50% off your Shutterfly order plus 10 free holiday cards
- A personalized video message from Santa via Portable North Pole
- A free 3-month trial of Crayola Create and Play
- Hassle-free, skip-the-line check-in
- Easy rescheduling (up to 48 hours before your visit)
- Peace of mind knowing your spot is saved—no matter how busy it gets
Don’t Miss the Magic
Whether it’s your toddler’s first photo, your teen’s twelfth, or a new adventure with your pet in tow, visiting Santa at Willowbrook Mall offers something special for everyone. It’s not just about the photos—it’s about slowing down, soaking in the season, and creating a few minutes of magic in the middle of the holiday rush.
For full details, hours, and to reserve your spot, visit the official Willowbrook Mall website or go to WhereIsSanta.com.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
