Holiday Magic at Hamilton Place: Santa's Arrival Parade, Festive Events & Extended Shopping Hours
Experience the enchanting holiday season as Hamilton Place transforms into a winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, festive decorations, family shopping, and a special visit from Santa Claus!
Santa arrives on Saturday, Nov. 9, during the beloved Santa Arrival Parade—a cherished annual tradition spanning over two decades that kicks off the holiday season. Witness the joy and excitement on children's faces as they watch the parade procession.
The parade begins at 11 a.m. near Belk Women’s, winds through the mall, and concludes at the Food Court entrance. Children can then escort Santa to his holiday home for their first photos with him.
Once settled, the Chattanooga Ballet will perform excerpts from The Nutcracker. Families can also enjoy cookie decorating with Great American Cookies, plus holiday crafts and activities at the Center Court stage.
Throughout the season, themed photo opportunities abound. Every Monday night through Dec. 16, pet owners are welcome to bring their furry companions—including dogs, cats, and even gerbils—for photos with Santa. All pets are invited!
Santa has also invited special guests to visit every Thursday through Dec. 19. Here's the lineup:
- Nov. 14: Disney Princesses Cinderella and Belle
- Nov. 21: Wizards Harry Potter and Hermione Granger
- Dec. 5: Santa Mocs with UTC athletes and Scrappy
- Dec. 12: Frozen’s Elsa and Anna
- Dec. 19: Marvel Superheroes Spider-Man and Captain America
Hamilton Place will be closed on Thanksgiving to allow families quality time together. Recharge, then join us for Black Friday shopping from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., with unbeatable deals from all retailers.
Post-Black Friday, participate in the Coats for Kids drive on Thursday, Dec. 5, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Donate new or gently used coats in the mall parking lot to benefit The Forgotten Child Fund.
The Salvation Army's Angel Tree (upper level between Kay Jewelers and Altar’d State) and iconic kettle bells will be onsite all season. Don't miss the Battle of the Bells, where local stations WRCB, WTVC, and WDEF compete to raise the most funds at mall entrances.
Hamilton Place offers extended hours for holiday shoppers:
- Nov. 29: 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Nov. 30: 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Dec. 8: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Dec. 13 & 14: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Dec. 15: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Dec. 16-20: 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Dec. 21: 9 a.m. – 11 p.m.
- Dec. 22: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- Dec. 23: 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Dec. 24: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Dec. 26: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Festive décor, cheerful music, and stage performances create pure holiday magic. Visit Hamilton Place to meet Santa, enjoy events, shop, and give back—making this the most wonderful time of the year!
