Santa's Flight Academy at Fair Oaks Mall

Last week, I had the opportunity to attend a blogger event for the unveiling of Fair Oaks Mall's Santa's Flight Academy.

The invitation was also open to bloggers' families so that they could take pictures with Santa. Although my kids were in school/preschool, I was available and thought it would be fun to check the holiday experience and meet some other bloggers. Plus, free breakfast courtesy of BRIO Tuscan Grill!

However, it turns out that I was the only person there that did not bring their family. It was a little difficult meeting other bloggers when they are trying to make sure that their kids aren't spilling food on their clothes before pictures with Santa. As a father of a two-year old, I totally get this. Still, it was a little awkward for me though Andrea of Northern Virginia Housewives and Teresa of Fair Oaks Mall were both incredibly friendly and gracious in hosting the event.

Before I share some pictures and provide more information about the very cool Santa's Flight Academy, make sure you scroll down to the end for a coupon if you decide to get family pictures with Santa.

From the press release:

To rediscover the magic and tradition of the holiday season, Fair Oaks Mall debuts “Santa’s Flight Academy,” a one-of-a-kind, immersive holiday experience that combines a giant reimagination of the North Pole with state-of-the-art technology to enable children to become a member of Santa’s flight crew. Partnering with an elf – either Sleigh Mechanic George, Flight Director Sparkle or Reindeer Caretaker Flash – each child will help ready Santa’s sleigh so he can deliver presents to children around the world.

You can also take pictures with Santa with your pet (as long as the pets are up-to-date on their vaccinations and are on a leash or carried in a lightweight, portable pet carrier with harness. Here are the dates of the pet photos with Santa

- Saturday, November 26, 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
- Sunday, November 27, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
- Sunday, December 4, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
- Saturday, December 10, 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
- Sunday, December 11, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Please note that I was not paid for this blog post. I mean, I got a free breakfast, but that's not a payment. Actually, getting paid with food should be a new mission for this blog! For more information about Santa's Flight Academy please visit the Fair Oaks Mall website.