Sponsored: Keen to take the little ones on a trip to meet the big guy in red? Here’s a great option.

‘Tis the season! Christmas is now only weeks away, and a Christmas market is opening in Garhoud today that should help you to get into the festive spirit.

The Santa Garden at Le Méridien Dubai in Garhoud will run from December 13 to December 24, and is open from 4pm to 8pm every day (a perfect, child-friendly time). It’s in the garden of the hotel, and you’ll find fairy lights, panetonne and lots of Christmas cheer.

The best bit? It’s free to enter.

There’s a soft-play area, carnival-style game stalls and food and beverage stations to keep the whole family entertained (and yes, there’s a mulled wine stand).

Santa’s Grotto

And, for Dhs25 little ones can experience a meet and greet with Santa himself in his grotto. Plus, Santa is multi-lingual! He will be able to make those in Dubai feel like they’re closer to home this Christmas by speaking to your children in their native language if that is either English, French, Spanish or German.

Another special activity is the gingerbread decorating classes, which also cost Dhs25 per child.

Gingerbread decorating classes…

You can make an online appointment to meet Santa in person at Le Meridien Dubai here (how very advanced of the big guy in red!).

The hotel will also have a free choir show (and festive nibbles) every evening from December 20 to December 24 from 7.15pm to 8.15pm – we’ll be the ones in the back in the loud jumper singing our heart out to Last Christmas. 

Le Meridien Dubai, Garhoud, 4pm to 8pm. Tel: (04) 702 2455. More info and bookings on website.