Pittsburgh Malls Launching Christmas Festivities

PITTSBURGH, PA — It's still several weeks until Thanksgiving, but two Pittsburgh malls already are ramping up for Christmas.

Simon Properties-owned Ross Park Mall and South Hills Village have announced their holiday plans. Visits with Santa will begin Nov. 6 at Ross Park Mall and Nov. 13 at South Hills Village.

Santa will be on hand at both malls through Dec. 24. New this year are select photo packages include Pixie Post digital greeting cards, which are personalized greetings that can be shared via text, email or scheduled for future delivery.

Reservations are encouraged. Walk-up visits may be available as space allows.

Additionally, the following activities will occur:

Ross Park Mall

• Mix & Jingle: Music, holiday crafts, a holiday show with your favorite princesses and more at Mix & Mingle on Nov. 14 from 12 p.m.-2 p.m. on the lower level near the play area. No RSVP is required.
• Caring Santa: Caring Santa offers a private, sensory-friendly holiday experience designed for children with special needs and their families. It's scheduled on Dec. 6 from 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. in Center Court, where photos with Santa will be available for purchase. Reservations are required.
• Holiday Dove Tree: People can honor the memory of a loved with Family Hospice’s Memorial Dove Tree tradition. From Nov. 10 through Dec. 30, people can have a loved one’s name inscribed on a tag and displayed on a dove ornament on the Memorial Dove Tree. To participate, download an order form or place an order online.
• Sounds of the Season: Holiday performances by local schools and community groups will be held Dec. 1-13. Performances will take place on the upper level near Dick's House of Sport.

South Hills Village

• Santa Arrival: Santa arrives Nov. 13 at 10 a.m. and is available for photos beginning at 11 a.m.
• Wednesday Play Date: This is a holiday play date on Dec. 9 from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and features a meet-and-greet with a Nordic snow queen and ice princess, plus a DJ dance party, balloon artist, interactive activities, make-and-take crafts, giveaways and more.
• Caring Santa: Caring Santa offers a private, sensory-friendly holiday experience designed for children with special needs and their families. It will occur on Dec.6 from 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. in the lower level near Target, where photos with Santa will be available for purchase. Reservations are required.
• Sounds of the Season: Holiday performances by local schools and community groups will occur Nov. 30-Dec. 13. Performances will take place on the lower level, center court, near Von Maur.