A seasonal tradition for many Central Ohio families.
Polaris Fashion Place has announced Santa visits, a sensory-friendly Santa morning, a menorah lighting, live music and community giving through the Giving Machine and Angel Tree, WSYX reports.
Holiday traditions are a big part of how a place feels, and for many Central Ohio families, a mall visit with Santa is one of them. A recent WSYX (ABC6) report lays out what Polaris Fashion Place has planned for the season, from Santa visits to community giving.
Everything below comes from the WSYX report. I have kept to what it says, and event details are as the article printed them. Please confirm times with the mall before you go.
When Do Santa Visits Begin at Polaris Fashion Place?
According to the report, Santa arrives on Saturday, Nov. 14. Children age 12 and under who visit Santa receive a free hot cocoa coupon for Pure Imagination Chocolatier and a holiday-themed squishy toy, while supplies last.
Other Santa experiences listed:
Baby's First Christmas: Sunday, Nov. 22, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Sensory Santa: Sunday, Dec. 6, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., in a sensory-friendly environment held before the mall opens
Breakfast with Santa: Saturday, Dec. 12, 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., at California Pizza Kitchen, $25 per person, with advance reservations required at 614-985-6304
What Other Holiday Events Are Planned?
The report lists three more events:
Chanukah Menorah Lighting: Wednesday, Dec. 9, 5 p.m., near the Kids Indoor Playground Area, led by Chabad Columbus
Central Ohio Symphony: Saturday, Dec. 12, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., with live holiday music between Cinnabon and Oakley
KidX Cookies & Claus: Thursday, Dec. 17, 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., with music, stories and dancing with Mrs. Claus and Santa's Elves, plus free cookie decorating by Great American Cookies
What Are the Shopping Hours?
The article says holiday activities begin on Black Friday, Nov. 27, when stores open at 8 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. It adds that extended holiday hours continue through the rest of the year.
How Can Visitors Give Back at the Mall?
The report describes three ways to give:
Giving Machine: It returns Nov. 13 through Dec. 5. Visitors can donate needed items for people facing hardships.
Salvation Army Angel Tree: Located near Center Court, where guests buy and donate new toys for children.
Nationwide Children's Butterfly fundraising program: Displayed on the upper level near Elena2You, it supports pediatric patients at Nationwide Children's Hospital.
What Did the General Manager Say?
Tamra Bower, general manager of Polaris Fashion Place, said, "we're excited to offer something for everyone this holiday season." She also described the season this way: "It's a time when families come together, traditions are created."
What Does the Report Not Say?
The article does not give ticket or photo prices for the standard Santa visits, and it does not describe parking or crowd levels. It also does not discuss housing or the local economy, so I will not claim any link between these events and Central Ohio real estate.
If you are new to Columbus or thinking about a move, seasonal traditions like these give you a feel for the community beyond the listings. Ask your agent for local news and events alongside home details; it is part of choosing where you want to spend your days.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Santa arrive at Polaris Fashion Place?
According to WSYX, Santa arrives on Saturday, Nov. 14. Children age 12 and under who visit Santa receive a free hot cocoa coupon for Pure Imagination Chocolatier and a holiday-themed squishy toy while supplies last. The report does not list standard Santa visit hours or photo prices, so check with the mall.
Is there a sensory-friendly Santa at Polaris?
Yes. The report lists Sensory Santa on Sunday, Dec. 6, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. It is held in a sensory-friendly environment before the mall opens. The article does not describe registration steps or what accommodations are provided, so contact the mall for those details before you plan a visit.
How do I reserve Breakfast with Santa?
The report says Breakfast with Santa is Saturday, Dec. 12, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at California Pizza Kitchen. It costs $25 per person, and advance reservations are required by calling 614-985-6304. The article does not say whether seating is limited or what the breakfast menu includes.
What is the Giving Machine at Polaris Fashion Place?
According to the report, the Giving Machine returns Nov. 13 through Dec. 5. Visitors can donate needed items for people facing hardships. The mall also hosts a Salvation Army Angel Tree near Center Court, where guests buy and donate new toys for children. The article does not list which items the machine offers.
If you are curious about life in Columbus beyond the listings, I am always happy to share what is happening around town. Reach out any time, no pressure, and let's talk about what you are looking for.
This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. All real estate services are provided in compliance with Fair Housing laws, RESPA, TCPA, the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, and Ohio Real Estate Commission advertising regulations. Equal Housing Opportunity. Chrisi Hagan, Collins Lassiter Group, Red 1 Realty.
