You better watch out, you better not cry, because a fully-vaccinated Santa Claus is coming to town.
Santa is going to return to the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City starting next Friday (Nov. 19) through Christmas Eve (Dec. 24). Reservations are “strongly encouraged,” notes the mall’s website.
Santa is fully vaccinated against COVID-19, a Fashion Centre at Pentagon City spokesperson confirmed this to ARLnow.
The website of the photography company behind Santa’s appearance also notes that all employees, including Santa and his elves, were required to be vaccinated by October 14, except for those with valid medical and religious exemptions.
Guests will have the choice to sit with Santa or be socially distant for their photos this year.
Masks or face shields are being encouraged for those over two years old, but not mandated at Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, a spokesperson confirmed.
“Santa’s helpers will be wearing masks throughout the duration of your visit,” notes the website.
Other safety measures in place include frequent cleaning of high touch-points and access to hands-free sanitizer.
Last year, despite increasing COVID cases and vaccines not yet being publicly available, Santa still came to Pentagon City for “safe and socially distanced” visits. At least he wasn’t in a bubble, like some other Santas across the region.
There’s no word yet on whether Santa will also be making an appearance at Ballston Quarter like in prior years.
