Illustration of a child whispering a wish to Santa in an armchair by the fireplace while an elf holds a list (Santa's Workshop at CherryVale Mall)
Other Christmas Activities

Santa's Workshop at CherryVale Mall

Families meet a real-bearded Santa and friendly elves on a professionally designed holiday set. Visitors take holiday photos to capture seasonal memories. Well-behaved, leashed pets can also join for photos during designated pet-friendly sessions.

Nov 14 – Dec 24, 2026 All ages Packages from $42.

Plan Your Visit

Hours

Nov 14 to Dec 10: Mon to Sat 12pm to 7pm; Sun 12pm to 6pm. Dec 11 to Dec 17: Mon to Sat 11am to 8pm; Sun 12pm to 6pm. Hours vary December 18 to 24.

Pets

Pet-friendly days are available at select locations, where visitors can bring pets to take photos with Santa. The page does not confirm whether CherryVale Mall is one of those locations.

Location

CherryVale Mall · 7200 Harrison Ave, Rockford, IL 61112 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children

Vibe

Festive and cheerful

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

High

Tips & Advice

  • Reserve your session online early to get the discounted package price and choose from the available dates and times.
  • Select an available date and time that suits your family, since sessions are booked in advance and walk-in waits are not guaranteed.
  • Arrive no more than five minutes before your scheduled visit, as requested for reserved sessions.
  • Check in with the Greeter when you arrive, then let staff guide your party through the photo-session process.
  • If anyone feels ill, do not attend; reschedule at least two hours ahead, noting date and time changes cost $3 and cancellations are not refunded.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Booking a reservation early offers a discounted package price.
  • Pet-friendly photo days may be available on Mondays at participating malls; check the mall calendar for a “Pet Days” tag.

Links & Contact

Run by VIP Holiday Photos

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can visit Santa for a photo?

People of all ages can enjoy the session; the booking form separates children aged 0 to 15 from adults.

Should I reserve a session, or can I walk in?

Reservations are made online in advance. Walk-ins are accepted, but the wait is not guaranteed.

What happens when we arrive for our reservation?

Check in with the Greeter, and staff will guide you through the process.

Can I bring my pet for a Santa photo?

Some participating malls offer pet days, and well-behaved, leashed, people-friendly pets are welcome there. Check the selected mall’s booking calendar for a Pet Days tag; CherryVale Mall’s participation is not confirmed.

Can a baby or toddler sit with Santa for a photo?

Children under two and children who need extra care must stay with an accompanying adult and may not be handed to Santa.

Browse Christmas in Rockford

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Event details verified: