Illustration of a dog in a scarf sitting on Santa's knee for a photo while its owner laughs (Santa Paws)
Other Christmas Activities

Santa Paws

Visitors can bring their furry companions to meet Santa for a special holiday photo session. Professional photographers are on set at the Candy Cane Station next to Läderach to capture the moment. Families can pose together with their pets to create lasting festive memories.

Dec 7 – Dec 14, 2026

Plan Your Visit

Accessibility

All venues are ADA/AODA compliant, and service animals are always welcome.

Pets

All animals must be caged and/or leashed.

Location

Westfield Old Orchard · 4905 Old Orchard Center, Skokie, IL 60077 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families who want a holiday photo with their pets

Vibe

Festive and pet-friendly

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

High

Tips & Advice

  • Book online to choose your date and time; you can reschedule through your confirmation email up to 48 hours beforehand.
  • Arrive within your selected 15-minute reservation window, and expect to share that slot with other families.
  • Walk-ups are welcome every day until closing time if you do not have a reservation.
  • Keep every animal caged or leashed, and enter through the mall entrance nearest Cupitol and Bloomie's.
  • Leave personal cameras and phones put away, since professional photographers capture the visit.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Pet Night is scheduled for December 7.
  • Pet Night is scheduled for December 14.
  • Online reservations include a personalized digital message from Santa before the visit.
  • Online reservations include a personalized bedtime story from the North Pole after the visit.

Links & Contact

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 website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can visit Santa?

Santa visits are for all ages, and families can pose together with their pets.

Should I reserve a photo time, or can I walk up?

Reservations are strongly encouraged but not required; walk-ups are welcome until closing. A reservation slot is shared with other families.

What should I know about bringing a pet?

Animals must be caged or leashed. Enter through the entrance nearest Cuptiol and Bloomie’s.

Can I take my own photos?

No. Professional photographers capture the visit, and personal photography is not allowed.

What happens during a Santa photo visit?

You meet Santa, have a photographer capture the moment, then select a photo package online or after the visit.

Browse Christmas in Skokie

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

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