Wishmas Owl

Everything kicks off on Saturday 30th November with the new festive attraction, Santa and the Wishmas Owl landing in the centre! In the 20-minute adventure, children will be greeted by the Wishmas Woodland Elves, jolly woodland sprites who speak to the animals and trees of the forest. There, they will meet Santa and the most majestic of their forest friends, the Wishmas Owl! In the Wishmas Forest, children are encouraged to focus on the power of kindness with Santa inviting participants to make wishes for not only themselves, but also extend their wishes to others at this special time of year. Children can share their Christmas wishes with Santa which the Wishmas Owl will “catch on her wings” to send to the North Pole!

Love from atria

To help families capture precious Christmas memories, on 30th November and 21st December there will also be the opportunity to have a completely free family photo card portrait taken by a professional photographer. Located on the Lower Mall by Boots, each participant will receive both a physical and digital copy of their picture so they can share it with loved ones around the world.

Charity Partnerships

On top of these great fun free activities - atria Watford will once again be supporting local good causes with their annual Gift Appeal and Charity Gift Wrapping.  Last year the Gift Appeal collected over 1,000 gifts distributed to charities such as Homestart and Watford Mencap and this year, the record is up for grabs!  Supporting Homestart and Watford Mencap again, atria Watford has expanded its support with donations also going towards Sebby’s Corner and HABS. Shoppers are invited to donate their new and unused gifts in the giant box located on the upper mall, near Apple.

Find the Charity Gift Wrap Station in its new location on the lower mall near Boots, and directly outside the Christmas store from Sunday 1st December 2024 until Christmas Eve. With a small donation, shoppers can have their gifts lovingly wrapped, meaning they can head home ready to put their presents straight under the tree.

Simon Plumb, Centre Director at atria Watford, comments “Christmas is such an exciting time of year and we want to help our visitors make it as memorable as possible. The Wishmas Owl is a much-loved part of our Christmas count-down, and this year you can also capture special holiday memories thanks to our photo card station.”

“Whilst visiting the centre, we’d also encourage people to donate a gift if they’re able, or get a gift wrapped for a loved one as we look to support local charities with their invaluable work.”

With an array of stores to help complete festive gift shopping, visitors can enjoy extended hours at atria Watford between 12th – 23rd December, open from 9am to 8pm (excluding Sundays).

To find out more about atria Watford’s Christmas activities as well as browse the extensive store, restaurant and leisure directory visit:  https://atriawatford.com