Looking for Santa? Here’s where to find him around Des Moines for a photo opportunity

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By Victoria Reyna-Rodriguez, Des Moines Register

Des Moines, IA-Santa Claus is making his way to the Des Moines metro, and there are plenty of opportunities to pay him a visit and even snap some photos before Christmas.

Santa will make an appearance at several holiday shopping events and malls.

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Here’s where to find ongoing photography events with Santa in 2024.

‘Santa’s Wonderland’ takes over Bass Pro Shops in Altoona

Santa adjusts the moose hat of Jeff Neas, 6, of Urbandale during Light Up Urbandale at Lions Park on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018 in Urbandale.

Whereas most of the year, Altoona‘s Bass Pro Shop focuses on sporting goods and outdoor supplies, the national chain continues its tradition of having “Santa’s Wonderland” inside its department store. Children and families can grab a photo with Santa behind a winter-themed backdrop.

  • Start date: Open now
  • Location: 1000 Bass Pro Drive Northwest, Altoona
  • Hours: By appointment only at basspro.com. Appointments are available for up to one week in advance with new slots added daily.

Jordan Creek Town Center hosts Santa until Christmas Eve

Emily Mullen, 6, Des Moines, grinned delightedly when asked by Santa what she wants for Christmas at the Festival of Trees festival Sunday, Nov. 30, 1997 at the Iowa State Capitol. Santa, also known as Ronald Carter, Des Moines, is one of about a thousand volunteers who work at the festival. “It’s fun,” he said. “I enjoy the kids.”

Jordan Creek offers more than one opportunity to meet Santa this year. While pictures with Santa are available for booking from now until Christmas Eve, Jordan Creek also offers pet nights with Santa, where you can capture photos with you, your furry loved one and Santa on Mondays or Tuesdays from Nov. 25 to Dec. 10.

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Valley West Mall hosts Santa until Christmas Eve

Jadyn Bindel, 9, of Winterset meets Santa at the Valley West Mall Sunday, Dec. 14, 2014.

Santa is coming to Valley West Mall for families to capture memories with multiple photo opportunities.

A sensory-friendly Santa event will be held on Sunday, Dec. 8 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Pet photos are available from 5-7 p.m. on Nov. 25, Nov. 26, Dec. 2 and Dec. 3.

  • Start Date: Open now
  • Location: Valley West Mall, 1551 Valley West Drive, West Des Moines
  • Hours: Hours differ, and can be found on Valley West Mall’s website, valleywestmall.com

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