Lindale Mall is Santa Central in Cedar Rapids In December

You know the Christmas season has started in Cedar Rapids when Santa arrives at Lindale Mall!

The anticipation has begun as Santa will be available at Lindale Mall to greet his guests and capture photo memories during retail hours beginning December 1 and continuing through Christmas Eve.

Then, on December 3, the glorious event officially ushering in his arrival will take place. According to CBS2:

We are as excited as ever to commence the holiday season, welcoming Santa Claus back to Lindale Mall to bring smiles and warmth to children and families in our area,” said Becky Eckley General Manager at Lindale Mall. “There is something universally magical about visiting Santa, and we’re delighted so many families choose to experience this special holiday tradition with us.

On the December 3 event, children can meet and greet with the man in red, along with face painting, balloon twisting, goody bags, and more.

Families who would like to pre-pay for their photo package with Santa can register using the link here.

Additionally, a separate Santa event is being held the following day. On December 4, children with all spectrums of special needs and their families can join the "Sensitive Santa" from 10:30-11:30 a.m. offering a quieter, calmer, sensory-friendly experience before the opening of retail hours.

Your pets can meet the big guy too!

Yet another ADORABLE experience is available to your four-legged friends called Paws & Claus on December 12 from 5-7 p.m. It's like a pet mixer where all pet lovers and their furbabies are welcome to come and hang with Santa, first come, first served.

Lindale is Christmas Headquarters in Cedar Rapids again

They say the enclosed malls are dying but it's events like this that keep Lindale going strong as a place for families to get the holiday experience, year after year. Santa will be in town setting up shop December 1-24 at the mall. Don't miss your chance to stop by and see him!