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Columbus Circle has always known how to get festive, but this year it’s leveling up: the mall’s fourth floor is morphing into a full-blown North Pole playground, complete with passport stamps, a Gingerbread Tower race and, yes, an audience with the big guy in red. Passport to Santa lands at The Shops at Columbus Circle from November 15 through December 31 and it’s aiming to be catnip for every kid and grown-up who still gets a little emotional when the tree lights flip on.
This is not your average “sit on Santa’s lap, smile, leave with a candy cane” moment. Guests will spend about two hours hopping through themed “countries” of holiday cheer, collecting stamps in a festive passport along the way. The itinerary includes signing the Naughty or Nice list with Mrs. Claus (be honest), building toys in Santa’s Workshop like a real North Pole intern, training with Rudolph, test-your-strength challenges in Nutcracker Kingdom and a gingerbread competition. There’s also a stop to write wishes with the Christmas Angel and a Barbie photo op for anyone still in their pink era.
Every completed task earns a stamp and, once passports are filled, visitors graduate to Santa’s Christmas Carnival, a whirlwind finish featuring bounce houses, arts and crafts, carnival-style games and prizes.
“Kids will be absolutely enchanted as they collect stamps at each magical stop along the way,” said producer Brandon Voss in an official statement. “From building toys in Santa’s Workshop to racing through Gingerbread Grounds, every moment is filled with holiday wonder—culminating in Santa’s Christmas Carnival, the ultimate festive finale.”
Tickets start at $35, with a VIP option at $55 that gets you priority entry, supplies for either the Build-A-Bear or Gingerbread Workshop and unlimited hot cocoa. The experience runs daily from 10am to 4pm, but you’ll want to book ahead, because if Manhattan parents love anything, it’s a holiday activity their kids can brag about at school.