KIM'S PICKS: Your Santa Claus Help Guide

Santa Claus is coming town.

Literally.

Need some one on one time with the big guy? Are you eager to make sure you are on his good list? Need a Santa suit? Need an actual Santa to spread holiday cheer? Need to get in shape for the big day? Want to know more about Santa in general? 

Sure you do! It's the holidays after all!

And Patch has some merry answers to all your burning questions.

So, let's dash away, dash away, dash away all and get down to the business of the jolly old elf.

Question: It's almost Christmas and I need to give Santa my wish list and get a picture taken with him!

Answer: And that you can!

Tacoma Mall (Tacoma)

South Hill Mall (Puyallup)

Uptown Shopping Center (Gig Harbor)

Why here: These shopping centers are all about Santa tradition. Pop in meet Santa and get a picture with for Christmas nostalgia and holiday fun. The Tacoma Mall and the South Hill Mall are offering pictures with Santa all the way up until Christmas Eve! The Uptown Shopping Center's great toy store, Teaching Toys, Too, has a pictures with Santa event this Saturday at the store from 12 to 4 PM. Please click on the links above for hours, pricing, and directions.

Question: Help! I need a Santa suit!

Answer: Help is here. Two great costume stores have you covered!

Lakewood Costumes (Lakewood)

Northwest Costume (Tacoma)

Why here: Lakewood Costumes' Santa's Closet has everything you need to look just like the real deal (including Mrs. Claus, elves, and more!). Beards, wigs, glasses, the works! They even can do custom engraved Santa license plates. For more information on all the jolly goods, see the link above. Long time costume shop, Northwest Costume, in Tacoma's cool 6th Avenue business district offers terrific Santa and holiday costumes (tip: if you are in that end of town, drive by and check out their awesome holiday themed window display). Check out their link above to get more information.

Question: I have a special event and I need to hire a Santa. How can I do this?

Answer: Actually, a resource does exist!

Gig Masters.com (Santa D.)

Why here: Let's just say I was surprised to find this listing! While this company and performer are based up north, they definitely come down to our neck of the woods in the South Sound. Judging from the reviews, this Santa knows his stuff and it looks like there are some dates left! See the link for more details (note: Patch readers, if you know of any other local Santas willing to hire out or volunteer their time, please let us know in comments). While this is not local, another interesting find: Santa Claus School where folks take classes in all things Santa. No, I am not kidding! Check out for fun.

Question: I am trying to get into shape before Christmas because of all the goodies that Santa will bring me! What can I do?

Answer: Easy! Join a Santa fun run!

Why here: Why not take part in Santa Runs Tacoma ,a 5k or 10k fun run/walk along Tacoma's beautiful waterfront this Saturday morning? This festive run features multiple running/walking events to choose from while having a holiday costume contest, food drive, food, and prizes! Want to bring your pooch? No problem! Dogs are welcome and even better yet, some of the proceeds will go to benefit the Humane Society of Tacoma and Pierce County.  So, fitness, fun, and animal love? I think Santa would approve. Click on the first link to get all race day details, prices, and times.

Question: I'd love to have some nice music playing for Santa when he arrives on Christmas Eve. What does he like to listen to?

Answer: Why North Pole Radio (from Tacoma.FM) of course!

Why here: This is your go to music station that streams Christmas music 24/7! Take a listen by clicking the link above to give it a go! Also, be sure to check out their Facebook page (again, the link above will get you there) to see who is listening worldwide! Santa will thank you!

Ho, ho, ho and Merry Christmas!