On Dec. 12, CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union will host a drive-thru Santa Parade for Alexandria’s children.

From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, children are invited to say hi to Santa from their car at the credit union at 4875 Eisenhower Ave. in Alexandria.

CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union, in previous years, has hosted multiple events with Santa, including photos with children. To keep the holiday spirit going this year while keeping everyone’s health and safety in mind, CommonWealth One thought of a new way for Santa to appear.

This year, Santa's elves will take a photo of decorated cars and collect children’s letters to Santa, who will be on site supervising and waving from a safe distance. In addition, children are invited to use CommonWealth One’s letter to Santa guide for a chance that Santa will respond by mail later this month.

There will also be a competition for the best decorated car, with the winning family receiving $250.

Since the pandemic has made it unsafe for Santa to sit so close to little kids, the drive-thru parade offers a safe alternative. Participants are asked to remain in their vehicle and wear a mask near Santa’s elves. This event is free and open to the public.

About CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union

Since 1944, CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union, headquartered in Alexandria, VA, has grown to become one of Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia’s top credit unions. CommonWealth One is a full-service, member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative committed to being its members lifetime financial partner. CommonWealth One has branches in Washington, D.C., Alexandria, VA, and Harrisonburg, VA (including at James Madison University).