*This is a paid collaboration post with Southcentre Mall*
Having grown up in Lake Bonavista, Southcentre Mall has been my favourite mall since we moved to Calgary in 199…..on second thought you don’t need to know how long ago that was (I’m not old, right? RIGHT???).
In my humble opinion, Christmas isn’t Christmas without a visit to Southcentre’s Enchanted Forest for pics with Santa. I grew up thinking every mall must do elaborate Christmas decorations to ring in the holiday and BOY was I surprised to find out that Southcentre goes WAY above what other malls do. It’s so cool to be able to take my kids to the same place that I grew up in (even if HMV didn’t hire me despite my 4,782 applications).
We already went and got our pictures taken and the process was seamless. Pictures are by appointment only, so we showed up right at our time, had our temperature checked, and were safely in and out in no time. The kids loved it and because it was so quick they didn’t get antsy or want to leave at any point. Southcentre has also set aside times for kiddos with sensory issues so they can safely and confidently get their picture taken. Click here to book your picture!
Supporting Local
My priorities have certainly shifted now that I’m a parent and the things I love about Southcentre have changed. While holiday magic and visits with Santa were a priority as a kid, now the ability to support local businesses and charities is top of mind and Southcentre does that in spades.
First, the always popular Wrapping For A Cure returns in support of Cystic Fibrosis. I’m absolutely TERRIBLE at wrapping, so this is a huge help as volunteers wrap gifts in exchange for a donation. In 2019, they raised more than $25,000 and they’ll be looking to top that this year.
Secondly, your kids are able to have some fun at the Cookie Kitchen in support of Meals on Wheels*. In exchange for a donation, your kids can decorate a cookie (either on-site or take one home) and in the tradition of supporting local, all the cookies are made by local business Bakeri by Jess.
As I’ve mentioned, Southcentre’s choice to actively support and champion local businesses is a big reason why I’m such a fan. Not only do they have shops that encourage investment in local makers, but they have dedicated themselves to breaking down barriers for smaller enterprises to access opportunities they might not otherwise have.
Local businesses are easy to spot with special stickers on their storefronts. You’ll find them on stores like Oak & Tonic, Joydrop, Collab, Lamose, Lily by Lyla, Drops of Gratitude and more.
Southcentre has ALSO just welcomed some new retailers to the mall including iLahui that offers an abundance of awesome stocking stuffer ideas, Western Canada’s first Decathlon (with in-store fitness classes and a co-working space!) and Mind Games that sell all the puzzles and games you’ll need for an awesome family time this holiday season.
You can check out the full list of retailers on their website SouthcentreMall.com, where you can shop and set up curbside pickup from a number of retailers, OR if you just don’t know what to get, you can order gift cards right from the website!
The last couple of years has been hard and more than ever I appreciate the businesses and people that are making a concerted effort to adapt and do good. For me, that’s exactly what Southcentre has done. Supporting local, supporting charities and offering options to accommodate everyone’s level of shopping comfort.
Check out all about Southcentre in person or online at SouthcentreMall.com.
*Meals on Wheels is also looking for volunteers to help facilitate this initiative. Kids who are 12+, as well as adults, are all able to volunteer this holiday season!
Read More On Dashing Dad
- 8 Sleds You Can Buy Online and Get Delivered To Your House For Christmas
- 2018 Holiday Gift Guide
- 2019 Holiday Gift Guide
- 2020 Holiday Gift Guide
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