BRIDGEWATER, N.J. (NOVEMBER 4, 2021): There’s a “clause” for commotion set to take place at Bridgewater Commons! That’s because beginning Saturday, Nov. 13, the more than 1.2 million square foot shopping, dining and entertainment destination located in Somerset County will welcome children of all ages for safe, socially-distanced visits and photos with Jolly Old Saint Nick via a contactless experience.
Presented by RWJBarnabas Health, visits to Santa at the Commons, located at Center Court on the Lower Level, will begin following St. Nick’s grand entrance.
Beginning at 11:00am, anticipation will run high as visitors enjoy a festive performance by the Warren Middle School chorus from Warren Township School District. Comprised of sixth to eighth grade students, the group will perform a joyous set of holiday carols under the direction of Amy Jensen. The ceremony will continue with the sounds of regal trumpeters signaling Santa is on the way to officially declare Santa at the Commons open for the holiday season! What’s more, courtesy of Williams-Sonoma, complimentary hot chocolate will be available where donations will be collected for Saint Jude’s Children’s Hospital (while supplies last). And, following Santa’s arrival, the merriment will carry on with The Village Carolers spreading more cheer as the group strolls the center singing favorite holiday tunes from Noon to 2:00pm. Shoppers may visit bridgewatercommons.com for The Village Carolers’ complete performance schedule throughout the holiday season.
“Welcoming Santa in style is a long-time Bridgewater Commons’ tradition,” remarked Marketing Director Tom Kovacic. “Along with greeting him on November 13th with great fanfare, we look forward to a stellar holiday season ahead filled with an array of family-friendly and festive happenings taking place in our newly-launched Community Hub special event space along with other areas of the center throughout the gift-giving season.”
Set amongst 25 garland-topped light curtains (each adorned with thousands of white, glistening lights) and twinkling, candy-cane inspired twists cascading from high above, Santa at the Commons will feature an authentic Kris Kringle perched in his comfy velvet chair on an elevated platform behind his adoring guests. A bright and cheery red photo frame sits in front of the famed wish-fulfiller proclaiming “Holiday Joy” to all.
Shoppers are encouraged to visit Bridgewater Commons’ website at bridgewatercommons.com to make their Santa at the Commons reservations where photo package choices and pricing is available. Visits and photos will take place through Friday, Dec. 24.
Santa Cares Day
Coinciding with International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Fri., Dec 3, Bridgewater Commons, in partnership with The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute, will open Santa at the Commons prior to regular shopping hours. From 9:00am to 11:00am, the sensory-friendly event will welcome children and adults within all spectrums of special needs to visit and take photos in a quiet setting. Families should reserve their time slot in advance at www.bridgewatercommons.com.
Santa at the Commons Hours of Operation
November 13 – November 23
• Monday – Thursday, 1:00pm – 7:00pm
• Friday – Saturday, 11:00am – 8:00pm
• Sunday 12:00pm – 6:00pm
November 24 – December 16 (Closed Thanksgiving Day)
• Monday – Thursday 11:00am – 7:00pm
• Friday – Saturday 11:00am – 8:00pm
• Sunday 12:00pm – 6:00pm
Please Note: Adjusted operating hours on the following dates:
• Saturday, Dec. 4: 12:30pm – 8:00pm
• Sunday, Dec. 5: 11:00am – 4:00pm
December 17 – 23
• Daily 10:00am – 8:00pm
December 24
• 10:00am – 5:00pm