“Santa Cares” Sensory-Friendly Photos with Santa in Illinois
People of all ages and abilities can enjoy some sensory-friendly Santa magic!
Join Cherry Hill Programs and Autism Speaks for Santa Cares events at shopping centers in Illinois on Dec. 8. Some event dates may vary.
Children and other individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities can visit with Santa in a quieter, more soothing environment.
Santa Cares events will include:
- Less hustle and bustle with most events occurring outside of normal shopping hours
- Reduced lighting and music
- A sensory-friendly trained Santa and staff
Booking a Santa Cares reservation is free. Photo packages are available to buy.
You can register and find participating sites on the Santa Cares website. Participating Illinois shopping centers include:
- Fashion Outlets of Chicago in Rosemont
- Fox Valley in Aurora
- Gurnee Mills in Gurnee
- Hawthorn in Vernon Hills
- Orland Square Mall in Orland Park
- Westfield Old Orchard in Skokie
- White Oaks Mall in Springfield
- Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg
You must make a reservation to attend. Be sure to select “Santa Cares” or similar description from the event schedule.
Please note: Santa Cares is offered as Caring Santa® at Simon mall locations and as SENSITIVE SANTA™ at Washington Prime Group mall locations.