Free pet photography with Santa?! What a paw-fect Christmas gift

Posted on 2 December, 2022

Why should your four-legged friends miss out on all howl-iday fun?

Here’s some good news for Christmas-obsessed pet owners everywhere (because who doesn’t love dressing up their dog in Santa outfits?). This year, the City Renewal Authority is hosting Christmas at Dickson Shops—and Canberra’s only free, pet-friendly Santa photography sessions.

That’s right, it’s time to grab your fur-child and dress them in their Christmas best! Every weekend until Sunday 18 December, families can head along to the Dickson Shops to have their family paw-trait taken (get it?)—and the best part is it’s FREE.

Taking over the stage near the Dickson Library (perfect for popping in afterwards to read the kids a Christmas tale or two), Santa and Ms Claus will be ready and waiting for professional photos of the whole family—complete with a Christmassy backdrop.

Starting from 11 am and finishing at 2 pm, those wishing to have their magical moment captured can scan a QR code on the signs at the Dickson shops, generating a ticket number. From there—when the time is right—the photographer will call you to the stage and email the final three images through, paw-fect for printing or making a fun family Christmas card.

And don’t worry if you’re more of a cat person (or any other animal); if it doesn’t bite, Santa will take a photo with it.

To add to the festival atmosphere, the Dickson Library will also be hosting a range of events with everything from sustainable gift wrapping to author meet and greets and even a special Christmas family movie event! Christmas crafting is also on the calendar—because, after all, tis the season. For a full list of library events, visit the ‘What’s On’ page on the Libraries ACT website.

Not festive enough for you? The Dickson shops will be all dressed up for the holidays and accompanied by musical cheer, compliments of local community choirs and professional pianists.

With no bookings required, it’s the paw-fect Christmas present for anyone on a budget.

Furry Christmas everyone!