Deptford Mall’s Christmas House features nostalgic themes, including Harry Potter, Blockbuster, and a room showcasing reindeer droppings.
This holiday season, the region is alive with a myriad of festive attractions, offering something for everyone, from the opulent celebrations in Center City to the charm of local malls. Among these offerings, Christmas House at the Deptford Mall stands out as a unique blend of nostalgia and humor, departing from traditional holiday experiences.
Christmas House invites guests into a whimsical holiday walking tour located in a repurposed Victoria’s Secret space. The attraction features a wide range of amusing scenes, including a recreated Blockbuster video store and a comically inebriated Santa. Visitors can explore a variety of themed rooms, including a reindeer stable with a humorous twist that gives the impression of a chaotic holiday scene.
The ticket price is set at per person, with group discounts available for parties of four or more. However, recognizing the financial strain that holiday activities can impose on families, owner Peter Coyle has introduced a “No Families Left Out” initiative. This program allows families to contact the Christmas House to negotiate a name-your-price option for admission, ensuring that cost does not prohibit participation in the festivities.
Coyle emphasizes that the attraction is designed to elicit laughter from both adults and children. Decorated in a nostalgic 1980s and ‘90s fashion, the Christmas House features numerous playful references that will resonate with adults while still maintaining a child-friendly atmosphere. For example, the Blockbuster room serves as a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era, offering just enough authenticity to trigger fond memories for many.
Visitors are treated to a delightful challenge as they attempt to find Buddy the Elf hidden throughout the themed rooms. This playful activity reinforces family bonding during the holiday season, with guests expressing joy and excitement over their discoveries. Among various charming setups, the Christmas House also includes unexpected surprises, such as whimsical hotel rooms complete with playful decor ranging from owls to festive characters like Shrek.
The attraction does not shy away from risqué comedy. For example, the “Sleigh-ed and Sloshed” room features a playful depiction of Santa reclining in a relaxed state accompanied by empty cups, which some parents may find a bit too cheeky. However, there are also spaces dedicated to more wholesome entertainment, such as a Harry Potter-themed room and an Elf Command Center where children can track Santa’s global journey.
Located at 1750 Deptford Center Rd., Deptford, N.J., Christmas House operates from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays, with extended hours on weekends. The attraction will remain open until January 2, providing holiday revelers ample opportunity to embrace the spirit of the season in both a fun and unconventional way.
