Holiday magic arrives as santa lands at freehold raceway mall

FREEHOLD, NJ – The holiday season is officially underway at Freehold Raceway Mall, where Santa Claus made his grand arrival Friday, November 7, delighting families and marking the start of a festive lineup of seasonal celebrations.

Arriving with a team of cheerful elves and plenty of Christmas cheer, Santa’s visit ushered in a schedule filled with photos, family fun, and joyful traditions that run through Christmas Eve.

Mall officials said the annual event continues to bring together families for holiday memories, shopping, and community spirit under one roof.

Key Points

Santa arrived at Freehold Raceway Mall on November 7 to kick off the holiday season.
Families can visit Santa daily through December 24 at the Lower Level, Zara Court.
Pet Nights and a Sensory-Friendly Santa Experience return as part of the festivities.

Santa’s sleigh officially in Freehold

Santa’s arrival marks the beginning of the mall’s most festive time of year. Families are invited to capture the magic with free visits and optional keepsake photos. A variety of photo packages are available for purchase, making the experience both personal and memorable.

Inclusive events and pet-friendly nights

This year’s lineup includes special themed events such as Pet Nights, held Mondays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on November 10, 17, 24 and December 1 and 8, allowing families to bring their furry friends for a picture-perfect holiday moment. The Santa Cares Sensory-Friendly Experience, organized with Cherry Hill Programs and Autism Speaks, will take place Sunday, December 7, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., creating a calm and welcoming environment for children of all abilities.

Santa’s full schedule through Christmas Eve

Santa will greet visitors at the Lower Level, Zara Court, through December 24. Hours vary throughout the season:

Nov. 7–23: Mon–Fri 2–7 p.m., Sat–Sun 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Nov. 24–26: Mon–Wed 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Thanksgiving Day: Closed
Nov. 28–Dec. 6: Sun–Fri 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
Dec. 7–13: Sun–Thurs 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Fri 11 a.m.–8 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
Dec. 14–23: Sun 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Mon–Sat 9 a.m.–9 p.m.
Dec. 24: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

A community tradition returns

Freehold Raceway Mall’s Santa experience has become a hallmark of the holiday season in central New Jersey, blending timeless family traditions with modern inclusivity and convenience.

For more details or to schedule a visit, go to www.freeholdracewaymall.com/santaphotos.

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