Santa To Return To Bridgewater Commons, For 2026

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Bridgewater Commons will kick off its holiday season Nov. 14 with Santa @ The Commons, a six-week run of Santa photos, live entertainment and family events through Dec. 24.

The program is presented by Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset, an RWJBarnabas Health hospital.

The season opens with Santa’s Birthday Celebration from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Nov. 14.

According to the mall, 15 violinists from the New Jersey Academy of Music will perform a holiday carol medley under the direction of Bethany Hankins.

Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey will provide treats and crafts while supplies last, and the event will continue with music, dancing, balloon art, magic and a birthday sing-along after Mrs. Claus welcomes Santa to Center Court on the Lower Level.

"There’s a reason why Santa’s Birthday Celebration has become such an important tradition at Bridgewater Commons — it’s a way for families and communities to make memories that will last a lifetime, and we’re thrilled to partner with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset once again," said Tom Kovacic, Marketing Director and Business Development Manager at Bridgewater Commons. "That magic will continue throughout the season with special events and concerts that will create special moments for all our guests, even including the four-legged ones!"

"We’re proud to support this special tradition that brings together families throughout Central New Jersey," said Deirdre Blaus, Chief Administrative Officer, RWJUH Somerset. "Our longstanding partnership with Bridgewater Commons also includes programs throughout the year that promote the health and wellness of our community, including the HealthHike mall walkers’ program, the HeartChecker blood pressure kiosk and Heart Month activities."

Through Dec. 24, guests can book Santa photos in a holiday display that includes a 30-foot Christmas tree, additional 10-foot trees and children’s "Elf Training" activities in the queue.

The mall also plans a free photo spot on the Main Level balcony with a large "JOY" frame overlooking Santa’s home.

Special events scheduled during the season include Pet Night with Santa for cats and dogs from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Nov. 23, Nov. 30 and Dec. 7.

Santa + Friends is set for Dec. 5 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., featuring Elsa and Anna from Disney’s Frozen for a free meet-and-greet, photos and autographs.

Bridgewater Commons will also host Holiday Brass at the Commons with The Salvation Army’s brass ensemble on Fridays and Saturdays from Nov. 27 to Dec. 19, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and again on Dec. 24 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Salvation Army Angel Tree will be available from Nov. 14 through Dec. 24 on the Main Level by L'Occitane, and the Salvation Army New Jersey Division’s Kettle Kick-Off Event is scheduled for Nov. 21 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

More information and Santa photo reservations are available at bridgewatercommons.com.

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