Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Issaquah Commons is still bringing Santa Claus visits to families through Dec. 24.

This year Santa will sit on a porch outside the Santa house display next to Panera Bread, leaving him a “reindeer’s distance apart” from kids asking for items on their Christmas list.

According to a press release from Madison Marquette, commercial owners for the outdoor Issaquah Commons shopping center, Santa’s photo center will be converted to be ” COVID-19 aware” with separate platforms for Santa and participating families in front of Santa’s sleigh. The pictures are also outdoors, include Elf Sanitizing Stations, and masks are required for all guests two years old and up.

Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays.

“We have heaters, but remember just like the North Pole, Issaquah can get a bit chilly at times…..Grab a cup of hot chocolate and stop by to say hello to Santa!” the press release states.

The Issaquah Commons also has an 18-foot lit reindeer for anyone to come grab a holiday selfie with.

Santa is asking for reservations for photos in advance, for more information visit this link.