VIENNA — Holiday activities at Grand Central Mall will begin Friday at 6 p.m. with a Santa Claus Welcome Parade.

The parade will begin at the food court and continue through the mall, ending at Santa’s Reindeer Barn in JCPenney Court. Participants will include the Parkersburg High School Marching Band and Parkersburg South High School’s Southern Belles Dance Team.

After the parade, families are encouraged to visit Kris Kringle himself for a perfect holiday photo opportunity.

Santa photos will take place in the JCPenney Courtyard from Friday through December 24th. Guests who book in advance will receive two free gifts and are welcome.

Four-legged friends will take center stage during Paws & Claus from 17:00 to 19:00 on December 9. Sensitive Santa will take place between 10-11:30 on December 8. Sensitive Santa offers a sensory-friendly experience that welcomes guests with sensory sensitivities to enjoy a magical morning with Santa before regular mall activities begin.

For more information, programs and reservations, go to