Holiday trees and lights brighten Eden Prairie Center’s Santa photo area in Scheels Court, where Santa will begin greeting families Nov. 11. Photo courtesy of Eden Prairie Center
Eden Prairie Center will usher in the holiday season with Santa’s Arrival Party on Saturday, Nov. 15, marking the start of a series of family-friendly events, performances and charitable activities through the end of December.
Dickens-style Victorian carolers will perform at Eden Prairie Center as part of the mall’s holiday festivities this season. Photo courtesy of Eden Prairie Center
The shopping center’s seasonal lineup includes returning favorites such as “Photos with Santa,” “Noon Year’s Eve,” and live holiday performances in Center Court.
“Eden Prairie Center offers everything for families in the community to make the season bright,” said Nancy Litwin, vice president of Eden Prairie Center. “Whether visiting to shop, dine, give back or enjoy one of our holiday events, we’re delighted to be a place where people can celebrate, connect and create lasting memories that capture the magic of the holiday season.”
The holiday season kicks off Nov. 11 with “Photos with Santa” in the Scheels Court, continuing through Dec. 24. Families can check Santa’s hours and make a reservation online, though walk-ins are welcome. Pet photos with Santa are available on Mondays through Dec. 15.
Santa’s Arrival Party — set for 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 15 in Center Court — will include music, storytelling, and visits from Mrs. Claus and other guests from the North Pole.
Puppies attract attention during a past Pet Adoption Day event at Eden Prairie Center, part of the mall’s seasonal community programming. Photo courtesy of Eden Prairie Center
Additional events planned throughout the season include:
Pet Adoption Days: Nov. 22, Dec. 6, and Dec. 13, featuring partnerships with Spot’s Last Stop Canine Rescue and Warrior Dog Rescue.
Gift Wrapping Station: Nov. 28 through Dec. 24 on the upper level near Center Court, with proceeds benefiting a local nonprofit organization.
Holiday performances: Nov. 29 through Dec. 24, with appearances by more than 20 local groups including the Eden Prairie Community Band and Dickens-style carolers.
Meet and Greet with the Snow Queen, Princess and Friends: Nov. 29 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Center Court. The free event features photo opportunities, storytime, and a “Let It Go” dance party. Guests are encouraged to dress in their favorite winter costumes.
Toys for Tots Drive: Dec. 2 at Scheels, hosted in collaboration with KFAN Radio and the Minnesota Vikings.
“Mixed Nuts Elves” comedy show: Dec. 6 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Center Court.
“Noon Year’s Eve” celebration: Dec. 31 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hi-Five Sports Zone, with games, music, and a balloon drop at noon.
Children meet costumed performers during a previous “Meet and Greet with the Snow Queen, Princess and Friends” event at Eden Prairie Center. Photo courtesy of Eden Prairie Center
AMC Eden Prairie Mall 18 will screen a lineup of family-friendly holiday films through early January, including “Wicked: For Good,” “Zootopia 2,” “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” and “The SpongeBob Movie.”
Eden Prairie Center will feature seasonal retailers and local vendors, including Go! Calendars and Games, Two Dusty Bears, B & J Trees, Doug Cummelin Photography, Northwoods Boutique, Cutco Kitchen and The Rose Craft Show.
For a complete list of events, performance times, and store information, visit the Eden Prairie Center website.