The Fairfax Girl Team Our pets are always on the Nice List, even on the rare occasion when they’re a tiny bit naughty. We have it on good authority that Mr. C is a big softie for animals, so naturally, he’ll be around Northern Virginia to take photos and meet some of the best boys and girls around. Read on for all the pet-friendly Santa events and photo ops in Northern Virginia this season.
Editor’s note: This is a growing list. If you know of an event that should be included, please email [email protected].
Ballston Quarter | 4238 Wilson Blvd, Arlington
Pets: December 8, 9, 15 & 16 from 4PM to 7PM
Dulles Town Center | 21100 Dulles Town Circle, Sterling
Pets: November 24 & December 1 from 4PM to 7PM
Fair Oaks Mall | 11750 Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax
Pets: November 24, December 1 & December 15 from 4PM to 7PM
Diverse Pet Santa: December 8 from 4PM to 7PM
Pentagon City | 1100 S Hayes Street, Arlington
Pets: November 23 & December 7 from 6:30PM to 8PM
Tysons Corner Center | 1961 Chain Bridge Road, Tysons
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Pets: November 24 & 25; December 1, 2 & 8 from 6PM to 8PM
Springfield Town Center | 6500 Springfield Mall, Springfield
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Dates: November 22–December 24
Mondays from 11AM to 7PM
Manassas Mall | 8300 Sudley Rd, Manassas
Pets: December 8 & 9 from 5PM to 7PM
Breakfast with Santa at Great Country Farms (Henway Cider Barn) | 18780 Foggy Bottom Road, Bluemont
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Dates: December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 & 21, 2025
Santa will be the VIP guest at a brunch buffet meet-and-greet at Great Country Farms. This festive event is open to guests of all ages, and reservations are encouraged.
Rosslyn Cheer 2025: Santa Paws Yappy Hour | Central Place Plaza, 1800 N Lynn St, Arlington
Date: December 5 from 5PM to 7PM
This event is for the dogs — literally. Pet-focused vendors will be on site, and Santa will be ready for photos with all the good boys and girls. Apple cider will be available to purchase.
Shipgarten Tree Lighting | 7581 Colshire Drive, McLean
Date: December 6, 2025
Festivities begin at 1PM with games and relays. At 4PM, Christmas carols begin, followed by the tree lighting at 5PM. This family-friendly celebration welcomes pets, too. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be onsite for crafts and photos. Cost: free.
Holiday Winter Market at Shipgarten | 7581 Colshire Drive, McLean
Date: December 13 from 1PM to 6PM
A free, family-friendly holiday market featuring games, face painting, vendors, and music. Santa & Mrs. Claus will be available for photos, and s’mores will be offered at the fire pits.
Santa’s Workshop at Mosaic District | 2910 District Avenue, Fairfax
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Date: December 20, 2025
Santa will be in the lobby of the Angelika Theater, and pets are invited for a special visit on December 20.
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