Here’s a great family-fun idea for wintry days ahead: Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s locations nationwide are offering free photos with Santa at their annual holiday event.
Hip2Save had the first tip about this seasonal treat, but it’s just one part of the fun! The stores’ “Santa’s Wonderland” areas bring a full-on Christmas experience, with free activities and cool stuff to get the little ones in the spirit.
The holiday extravaganza begins on Nov. 16 with a “Santa’s Arrival” event at the stores. Starting at 5 p.m., guests are treated to a tree-lighting ceremony, hot chocolate and more. Free giveaways start at 5:30 p.m., while the free photos and a free craft (decorating a Christmas stocking) run from 6-8 p.m. While waiting for their turn with Santa, kids receive a free Santa stress toy.
For a free photo, guests must first grab a “Bass Pass” from one of the in-store kiosks. This functions as your family ticket for a Santa pic.
The passes give you a time slot for your photo shoot with Santa. They’re first-come, first-served and in limited quantity, so you’ll want to snag one as soon as you arrive. Some store locations will also have a digital version that secures your spot in line.
Either way, you’ll be able to explore the rest of the Wonderland while waiting instead of languishing in line with your antsy kids. You could even get some of your holiday shopping done throughout the store!
Once you get your snap with the big man himself, you’ll get a free 4×6 printed photo and the option to purchase more pics if you wish.
Even if you miss out on a Santa photo, the colorful Santa’s Wonderland area is worth the visit alone. It’s filled with a variety of activities for the kiddos, like video games, crafts, remote-control vehicles and building toys. You can write a letter to Santa, too.
The selection of activities varies by store, though, so you’ll have to contact your local Bass Pro Shop or Cabela’s for their lineup.
Santa’s Wonderland, including the photos with Santa, runs daily through Christmas Eve, with some exceptions based on location. The free craft changes every week. Also, the Santa stress toy giveaway takes place Mondays-Thursdays from 5-7 p.m. on Nov. 18-Dec. 24 at both chains. Check the full schedule for Cabela’s here, and the Bass Pro schedule here.
My kids are already in love with the giant aquarium at our nearby Bass Pro Outdoor World, so this is going to blow their Christmas-loving minds!
Will you be there too?
This story originally appeared on Don't Waste Your Money. Checkout Don't Waste Your Money for product reviews and other great ideas to save and make money.