His flowing white beard will be cared for by his special hair and makeup team, including the likes of Mrs Claus, Rudolph, Christmas angels, and his famous Christmas elves. And this year he has new friends joining him from the Silver Soles Cloggers Association.

Riverside Plaza marketing manager Heidi Flaherty said preparations for Santa's arrival were well underway.

"He likes to have a bit of a chat with me to talk about what's going to happen," Ms Flaherty said.

"He makes sure his suit is in [fine] condition, his bells are functioning correctly [and that his] 'ho-ho-ho' is sounding very merry," she said.

Working as Santa's top secret confidant, Ms Flaherty said she was "excited" to be welcoming Santa to Queanbeyan.

"I haven't asked Santa what his dance moves are like yet, but he's very enthusiastic, and he'll be ringing his bell with great gusto," Ms Flaherty said.

Champion cloggers will also be vying for Santa's attention on the day, with competition from dancers at Impressions Dance and Fitness.

As for Santa's reindeers, they are also rumoured to be polishing up their dancing shoes.

"Rudolph will be entertaining the reindeers, they will be doing some warm up stretches before their busy season and getting their dancing boots polished," Ms Flaherty said.

Photo opportunities will be available with Santa from Saturday, but due to his celebrity status, only one session will be conducted at a time.

Attendees can also bring along a pet for a special photographic session on December 1, for those people who want a photo taken with Santa and their pet.

"In previous years we've had a lot of dogs, ferrets, a couple of cats, and last year we didn't have a snake but we have had one before," Ms Flaherty said.

Dogs are the most popular and have been captured well in the past by photographers, but will only be granted access to Santa if they are on a lead, and bookings are essential.

"I know Santa's feeling very jolly, and he is looking forward to seeing many happy faces," Ms Flaherty said.

"On Saturday there will be giveaways and pop up dance performances, so be sure to bring the whole family along," she said.

* Photo opportunities with Santa on Saturday will be available from 12-2pm. Various sessions will be available throughout the month and a full list of times are available online at riversideplaza.com.au. Please note bookings for the animal photos on December 1 are essential.