santa visits usa

• Live Visits Request Form
• VIRTUAL VISITS
• BOOK ELITE PERFORMERS
• HOLIDAY FUN

For Your Family - Home Party Visits!

Since 1983, American Events has delivered your Family Traditions one generation to the next!

Certified Professional Performers - Beyond the average Professional 

Connect with our North Pole Elves to arrange the real Santa Claus, (or Santa and Mrs. Claus) 

to bring Christmas Memories & Magic to your holiday gatherings!

Special Interactive activities that engage all ages from toddlers to great Grandparents! 

Private visits are customized and include, stories, lap visits, photos & videos, gift delivery and more!

Book your Family/Home Visit and receive THREE FREE GIFTS!

Virtual Visits & Messages

Live visit with Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus or Elf Buzz over your computer, phone or IPad! Santas brings giggles and thrills as he shares all the secrets he knows about your child! Pick your best day and time to spend with Santa!

AVAILABLE YEAR ROUND!       $ 10 GIFT with every visit!

North Pole Storytime

Parents!  Your little ones will have weeks of holiday fun with Santa, Mrs. Claus & Elf Buzz! 1000 Video Shows, Stories, Sing alongs, puppet shows, craft projects, bedtime stories, magic shows & more! Opens Nov. 1st!   

FREE with your Santa Booking!

My Santa Reports 

Santa's GOOD BEHAVIOR PROGRAM! 8 weeks of fun! Report your nice deeds weekly! Earn your NICE CERTIFICATE! Send Santa your WISH LIST! See your name on Santa's List! Report your Elf on the Shelf! Opens Nov. 1st

  FREE with your Santa Booking! 

Corporate Events, National Promotions, Talent Buyers, International Appearances 

You deserve quality holiday entertainment you can trust, that is highly trained, polished and 100% professional for your VIP guests!

American Events has 39  years experience delivering excellence in holiday Magic, Memories and Traditions!

Over 150,000 events successfully served! Over 2,500 Holiday Performers across North America! We are ready to fill your needs!

Book Early for best availability! Or be a bit flexible with your arrival date or start time!

Reservations open Dec. 26th for the following year! OPEN YEAR ROUND to assist with your holiday needs!

LIVE Performers For Any Holiday Gathering!

Local, Regional or National coverage of Santas for your group event, photo open house  or advertising promotion. Photo Sudios, Country Clubs to Fortune 500 firms! Send us your Event Request or Call us today!

(303) 665-8280 

Virtual Events & Santa Visits for Large Groups/Business

National companies can arrange a Children's Holiday Party! Activities and interactive fun with Santa, Mrs. Claus & Elf Buzz! Fully branded and customized for your company, group or church.

Includes 3 gifts for every family attending! 

My Santa Reports Family Memberships for Your Employees or Clients!

Give all your employees and clients the gift of "perfect" children with Santa's 8 week GOOD BEHAVIOR program. Call us to find out how My Santa Reports also works as marketing tools to increase your client database! 

Talent Buyers, High Profile Events & International Appearances

Luxury Resorts, Cruise Lines, Studio work, TV & Movie Roles

When your event or project requires true CHRISTMAS ROYALTY-

Select from our top of the line ELITE PERFORMERS!

These performers are available to our most exclusive Talent Buyers.

Contact us for access to review this tier of performers (Available year round!)

Santas & Mrs. Clauses! More experience! More Showmanship!

More talents! Higher level costuming!

Instantly "audition" the best performers in the holiday industry.

Elite Santa Placement for Advertising Agencies, Hospitality, & International Assignments

For our most discerning and exclusive clients only! 

 Here you will find Entertainment Royalty from the North Pole! The most refined, experienced, polished, Elite Santas & Mrs. Clauses in the USA!  For Movies, Advertising Campaigns, Print-work, Television Commercials, Cruise Line Entertainment, Luxury Resorts, Celebrity Events, International Assignments & more!  Your event needs a diamond not just a pearl! Audition top talent from across North America from the comfort of your office or patio! 

Please complete & submit your Talent Request so we can grant access to view & audition these Elite Entertainers!  

• Performer Name First Last
• Performer Phone Number
• Performer Number *
• EVENT ID: (Copy and paste from your Assignment) *
• Event Date * MM slash DD slash YYYY
• Company Name:
• Assignment Name *
• Venue Address City State / Province / Region
• Type of Event:
• What Type of Event are you having?:
• At this event I performed as a/an: * CHOOSE ONE Santa Claus Mrs. Claus Santa and Mrs. Claus Elf Costume Character Other
• Describe "Other" performer: *
• I got in touch with my Event Contact person on: * MM slash DD slash YYYY
• Describe problems encountered in connecting with Event Contact Person.
• Ease of working with this Contact Person * Sweet Dream Pretty good Neutral Not so great Nightmare
• Changes to the event outlined by the Contact person (different from my assignment):
• Arrival time (parked outside) at event location: * : Hours Minutes AM PM AM/PM
• Actual time of Grand Entrance to event: * : Hours Minutes AM PM AM/PM
• Departure time from home/party area: * : Hours Minutes AM PM AM/PM
• Total time "on stage" at this event:
• Explain any time / lateness discrepancy:
• Overtime needed because:
• Describe reason for not being able to provide OT form within 24 hours. And when form will be sent.
• Number of children/guests expected (per your assignment): *
• Actual Estimated # of children/guests in attendance: *
• Changes I made to the “SAG SHOW”: *
• I made these changes because: *
• Grand Entrance
• Find & Greet Host
• Gathered Children
• Performed Night Before Christmas
• Jingle Bells- Pass Bells
• Rudolph Pointing Song
• Used Scroll / Santa’s Note Cards
• Plushies by AEP
• Handed out Goodie Bags
• Strolling with crowds / Photos
• Check in with Contact Person BEFORE leaving
• Song Gift to Parents with Children
• Christmas karaoke
• Organized my music with DJ
• Read a story
• Told wholesome joke(s)
• Teach the North Pole “Ho Ho” Dance
• One-on-One Lap Visits
• Gifts by client
• Candy canes
• Mingled with/ Greeted Crowd at door
• Holiday Charades
• Holiday Trivia
• Back yard Fly-by with Reindeer Radars
• Holiday BACKDROP provided by AEP
• Tree Lighting
• OTHER activities I Included were:
• What activities worked best for THIS client & WHY?: *
• In depth DETAILED REPORT: notes, ideas, incidents, other performers, of this event: *
• Best things about THIS event was: *
• Problem area(s) with THIS event was/were: *
• Next time I do THIS event I will: *
• Other Notes / comments to AEP about this event:
• Santas Only: Number of Reindeer Radar used: #
• # of Plushies used at this event?
• Briefly Describe the plushies handed out (4” Mice, 6” Snowmen, etc):
• SAG POST CARDS: I set out/used/left behind #
• I used approx. #_________ AEP SAG Biz Cards with my name on them.
• I used approx. #_________ MSR Cards with Code:__________________ on them.
• I will call the AEP Office tomorrow 303-665-8280 because I need more SAG SUPPLIES:
• Please Explain Your Rating (Achieved):
• Please Explain Your Expected Rating (Client Rating):
• On Site Tips received: $ *
• Trip Charge / Travel Allowance / Parking / Other Offsets *
• My hotel/lodging accommodations (IF applicable) were: *

Please add this event to your INVOICE now while it is fresh in your mind!

• Explain Reason for not making a TIMELY CALL TO CLIENT: *
• Explain Reason for not completing Post-Event RECAP within 36 hrs. *

Santa understands: that this client and incomes from subsequent bookings with this client will remain the account / property of American Events. Santa agrees NOT to contact this client for purposes other than conducting authorized AEP business procedures. If entertainer is contacted by client/company after event, (any time within a period of 5 years) all spin-off bookings/ incomes will be re-directed to AEP to manage, per non-compete agreement. AEP will ethically re-book same entertainer to this client/event next year, when client rebooks and expresses pleasure with your services. AEP will ethically re-book same entertainer for any “spin-off” business for which contractor is or may possibly arrange schedule to accommodate.

• SIGN YOUR INITIALS TO AGREE: *

Sorry. You must be logged in to view this form.

Your CPS Performer has a special musical talent to share with your audience!

A Little About You!

• Customer Contact Name * First Last
• Virtual Party / Event
• In-Person Event
• Type of Virtual Event * Private Party Organization/Company Classroom School / Pre-School Club or Organization Special Needs Church HOA Other
• Type of Virtual Event: Other
• Sponsor (if applicable)
• Time Zone of Party *
• Est # of computers logging in *
• Virtual party theme options PICK ONE Breakfast with Santa Milk & Cookies with Santa Fams In Jams PJ Party with Santa
• Who will be ZOOM CO-HOST with Santa?
• Company/Organization
• Est. Total Number of Adults Attending * Please enter a number greater than or equal to 1 .
• Est. Total Number of Children Attending * Please enter a number greater than or equal to 1 .
• Hidden Total Number of Adults and Children Attending
• Private Party Event Theme? * Please Select Theme by Clicking Here Home Visit with Santa “Sant-A-Gram” ™ Home Visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus “Sant-A-Gram” ™ Christmas Eve Santa Visit (4-9 PM) "Sneak-N-Peek" ™ Christmas Eve after 9 PM “Santa-In-The-Neighborhood” ™ (3 or more homes, same date) Christmas Party / Open House Santa Visit Caroling / Karaoke Party Family Reunion / Holiday Celebration Cheer up Visit / Hospital Visit from Santa Special Gift Delivery Engagement / Proposal Bridal / Baby Shower Anniversary Baby Announcement Birthday Party Santa Visit Easter Bunny / Egg Hunt Other
• Company Name
• Company/Organization Event Theme? * Please Select Theme by Clicking Here Advertising Promotion Amusement Area (Zoo, Park, Museum) Anniversary Apartment Complex Auction / Silent Auction Bazaar Breakfast / Brunch with Santa Boy / Girl Scout Holiday Meeting Caroling Party - Sing Along with Santa Charity Children's Christmas Party Christmas Bazaar Christmas in JULY Event Church Function Company / Corporate Party Cookie Exchange Country Club Event Craft Show Day Care Fashion Show Food Festival Fundraiser Gift Show Grocery Store Hay Wagon / Sleigh Rides HOA Homeowners' Event Holiday Market Hospital Visit / Group Ice Skating with Santa / Rink Karaoke Party Large Group Gathering Light Display Media Event Mall / Shopping Center Event Military Base Mom's Club Gathering Office Party (Adults) Open House Pajama Party Parade Photo Studio / Mini Sessions Photos with Santa Promotion Radio Show / TV Raffle / Silent Auction Ranch or Farm Setting Real Estate Office Recreation Center Restaurant Roller Skating with Santa Secret Santa Gift Exchange Senior Home / Independent Living / Memory Care / School / Pre-School Shopping Center Silent Auction Sleigh Rides Ski Party / Apres Ski Party Street Festival Strolling Santa Trade Show Booth Tree Lighting TV Show / Radio Television Commercial Ugly Sweater Event Easter Bunny / Egg Hunt Other
• Customer Contact Phone *
• Customer Alternate Phone *
• Customer Email * Enter Email Confirm Email
• Business Hours - 9AM to 5PM
• Evenings 5PM to 9PM

Please complete the form below to alert American Events of your Santa needs.

• Elf Assistant
• Easter Bunny with Mrs. Cabbage Patch
• Studio Quality Theme Backdrop
• Santa Throne / Chair
• Covered Outdoor (Tent our Outbuilding)
• Single Date Event
• Multiple Dates / Times
• Performer Start Time * : Hours Minutes AM PM AM/PM
• Expected Duration *
• Event Time can be adjusted by 30 minutes
• Event Time can be adjusted by 1 hr
• Event Time can be adjusted by 2 hrs
• I am VERY flexible
• Other - I want to provide other dates/times.
• Requested Performer On-Stage Time
• What other dates might work for you to fit our top performers?
• Single Location
• Multiple Locations
• Venue Address * Street Address Address Line 2 City State / Province / Region ZIP / Postal Code Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cabo Verde Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos Islands Colombia Comoros Congo Congo, Democratic Republic of the Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czechia Côte d'Ivoire Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard Island and McDonald Islands Holy See Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macao Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Macedonia Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Réunion Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Sweden Switzerland Syria Arab Republic Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania, the United Republic of Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Türkiye US Minor Outlying Islands Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Viet Nam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Åland Islands Country
• Performer Name (If Known)
• Performer ID (If Known)
• Notes to Santa's Elves
• Thank You for taking the time to share your event information with American Events. Santa's Scheduling Elves will be back with your shortly via phone or email. We look forward to confirming your Santa Claus event with the appropriate paperwork.
• I certify that I am an adult above the age of 18
• Hidden Performance Fee
• Hidden Travel Costs (Mileage, Air Travel, Car Rentals, etc.)
• Hidden Hotel Costs
• Hidden Other Costs (Describe in Comments)
• Hidden Quote Total
• Hidden Comments / Limitations
• Hidden REQUEST TYPE: AEP-SAG CPS ESP ST
• Hidden Performer ID
• Hidden Performer Name First Last

Enter the destination URL

Or link to existing content

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

23 US Cities That Go All Out for Christmas

By Caitlin Morton

Think of the phrase “Christmas in America” and you’ll likely imagine the usual suspects: giant trees festooned in twinkling lights, people of all ages caroling and singing “Silent Night,” ubiquitous tributes to the jolly man in red named Santa Claus, and gingerbread. Lots of gingerbread. But take a closer look and you may be surprised: Christmas celebrations across the United States can look very different, depending on the environment, local history, and present-day cultures of the people who live there. Not everything is a winter wonderland—in fact, maybe a warm-weather destination for the holidays is exactly what you need. Regardless of temperature, these 23 destinations are some of the best places to spend Christmas this year.

These places below are known for the ways they come alive at Christmastime: from the glitzy and glam festivities of big cities like New York or Chicago to the Santa-hats-and-shorts vibes of Santa Fe and St. Augustine. Of course, your Christmas vacation ideas in the US are far from limited to just these places. Here's one idea: Head out on a multi-destination road trip to check out some fantastical drive-through Christmas lights displays . And while there are a great many places to celebrate Christmas around the world , experience one Christmas in America and you’ll be a person changed for the better.

Here are some of the best places to go for Christmas in the United States this year, ranging all types of atmosphere and styles: from Kennebunkport to Las Vegas , from Dallas to North Pole, Alaska (note the missing the ). No matter where you choose, there are plenty of activities to participate in, events to check out, and places to stay. Happy holidays, y’all.

This article has been updated since its original publish date. All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Alexandria, Virginia

Why we go: Located about 20 minutes south of Washington, DC, Alexandria is a picture-perfect place to spend the holiday season. The Old Town’s row houses and centuries-old brick streets look even more charming when adorned with snow and Christmas wreaths, and you can expect a ton of seasonal activities. The festivities kick off along the Potomac River shoreline with the Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights (December 2 at 5:30 p.m.) and the annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade (December 3). Come Christmas Eve, try to spot Waterskiing Santa along the Potomac River.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Get a taste of the Christmases of yore at nearby Mount Vernon (George Washington’s former home), where you can take a candlelit guided tour, and enjoy some cider and cookies (with special events on November 24 and 25, December 1, 2, 8, 9, and 17).

Stay here: Book a stay at The Alexandrian, Autograph Collection , which is on King Street, in the heart of Alexandria’s shopping and entertainment area.

Asheville, North Carolina

Why we go: Asheville is easily one of the country’s best places to spend Christmas, offering all the light displays and holiday shopping—not to mention the perfect tucked-away location in the Blue Ridge Mountains —any vacationer could wish for. Some of the city’s seasonal offerings include a lit-up wonderland at the North Carolina Arboretum , and the 29th Annual National Gingerbread House Competition at The Omni Grove Park Inn (on display from November 27 to January 2).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Christmas at Biltmore Estate is just as spectacular as it sounds, with 100 hand-decorated trees, 10,000 ornaments, and 100,000 holiday lights drawing visitors through the new year in January.

Stay here: Cozy up in The Foundry , a hotel that opened in 2018 with a James Beard-nominated chef running its in-house restaurant. It’s Asheville’s best boutique hotel, filled with authentic touches—from lots of exposed brick to the restaurant’s modern spins on comfort food.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Why we go: This Christmas, visit the little town of Bethlehem—in Pennsylvania, that is. The city’s German-inspired Christmas City Village and Christkindlmarkt (November 17 to December 17) feature rotating displays by artisans, live music, and glass-blowing demonstrations. After stocking up on handmade ornaments and nutcrackers, take a carriage ride through Downtown Bethlehem to take in all the Christmas lights.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Winter Light Spectacular (through December 31) at the Lehigh Valley Zoo, about 30 minutes northwest of Bethlehem, features more than a million lights and illuminated scenes throughout the zoo.

Stay here: The Sayre Mansion Inn has warm and comfortable rooms, private six-course dinners, and beautiful Christmas decorations. If you want to venture out into the town, Lehigh University, St. Luke’s Hospital, the Steel Stacks Performing Arts Center, and the Wind Creek Casino are all nearby.

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Why we go: Normally, you wouldn’t expect an Arctic experience in southern Kentucky, but Bowling Green is shaking up the holiday game this year. The Christmas spirit is definitely alive at the city’s Reindeer Farm , where families can feed reindeer, watch holiday movies, and drink cocoa while writing letters to Santa. (There's even wine tasting for the grown-ups.)

The one thing to get you in the spirit: End your festive vacation at the SoKY Marketplace Ice Rink , an outdoor rink where you can skate with Santa and the Grinch.

Stay here: Opened in mid-2019, the Lodge at Olde Stone offers 12 cozy, Kentucky-inspired suites and a restaurant serving up Southern dishes. And if you’re a golfer, be sure to pack your clubs: the property boasts 9- and 18-hole courses onsite.

Shannon McMahon

Charley Ward

Hannah Towey

Madison Flager

Branson, Missouri

Why we go: Sort of like a family-friendly little sister to Las Vegas, Branson pulls out all the stops every holiday season. The Ozark Mountain town transforms into a winter wonderland with 1,500 Christmas trees in and around town, ice skating under the Branson Ferris Wheel, and several drive-through light displays .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Head straight to the 1880s-themed amusement park Silver Dollar City for the annual An Old Time Christmas festival. The party lasts until December 30 and includes 6.5 million lights, 1,000 trees (including an eight-story one), outdoor shows, parades, and, of course, rides.

Stay here: Chateau on the Lake is one of the nicest hotels in town, with beautiful lake views, a full-service luxury spa, and the Chateau Marina, where activities include fishing, water skiing, and tubing (though you may want to wait for warmer weather—or not, if that’s your thing).

Charleston, South Carolina

Why we go: Charleston is the perfect destination for any fan of the holidays, but not of the frigid weather that often comes with the season. There are plenty of Christmas-oriented events and festivities in the city that are fit for every type of tourist. Check out the Festival of Trees at The Charleston Place , where 16 Christmas trees, each one decorated by a local Charleston business or organization, will be on display throughout the beautiful hotel’s second floor. For something that sounds (and is) magnificent, catch The Sound of Charleston , where you can hear the music that tells the city’s story: gospel spirituals, music by George Gershwin, Civil War songs, and jazz. For something pleasantly aquatic, head over to the South Carolina Aquarium, which presents the dazzling light show Aquarium Aglow after the sun goes down on select evenings this November and December (be sure to say hi to “Scuba Claus” in the Great Ocean Tank).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: As far as classically Christmassy merrymaking goes, it doesn’t get any more traditional (minus the freezing temperatures) than the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park featuring a spectacular light show that features over two million tiny light bulbs.

Stay here: There are plenty of options in South Carolina’s beautiful port city: There’s the perennial favorite French Quarter Inn , which welcomes guests with a glass of Champagne and is just a few steps away from the famous Charleston City Market. Meanwhile, The Vendue , the city’s first art hotel concept, offers an ever-evolving experience—the hotel has a full-time docent and rotating exhibits. And for something classic, there’s Hotel Bennett , voted the very best hotel in Charleston by Traveler readers in the Readers’ Choice Awards 2023 ; its old-world grandeur and good ol’ Southern charm make this Marion Square hotel irresistible. (The place also hosts a holiday tea on Thursdays and Fridays until Christmas.)

Chicago, Illinois

Why we go: From its European-inspired Christkindlmarket (from November 17 to December 24) to light shows galore (there’s the Let It Shine drive-through Christmas lights display), Chicago knows a thing or two about embracing the Christmas spirit (and freezing temperatures). Can’t-miss activities include visiting the 51-foot Christmas tree in Millennium Park and cozying up in a heated igloo at The Godfrey Hotel .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Be dazzled by 2.5 million LEDs at ZooLights (from November 17 through January 7), an annual light festival held at Lincoln Park Zoo. Check out the event’s calendar for sensory-friendly visit times.

Stay here: As far as hotels go, travelers truly have their pick of the litter in the Windy City. One top choice is The Langham, Chicago , housed in a landmark Mies van der Rohe building along the Chicago River. It's just a Chicago hotdog’s throw away from Magnificent Mile, where you can get all your holiday shopping done. For the sportier among us, there’s the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel , which has a strong local following for its historic lobby, indoor bocce, foosball in its game room, and the gem-like Milk Room bar, among other things. On the rooftop, and mostly enclosed by an atrium, Cindy’s cranks it up with large format cocktails, shareable dishes, and some of the best views of Millennium Park.

Dallas, Texas

Why we go: Proving you don’t need cold temperatures to get in the Christmas spirit, the holiday celebrations in Dallas put most northern cities to shame. Most notable is Holiday at the Arboretum (now through January 5), a Christmas village with millions of lights, a 50-foot tree with lights animated to music, and visits with Santa Claus. Elsewhere in town, you can drive through the Dallas Zoo Lights route (from November 17 to January 2) and skate next to the country’s tallest indoor Christmas tree at the Galleria Dallas Ice Skating Center .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Throw a few back at Miracle , a Christmas-themed pop-up bar that returns to Dallas this year at the cocktail bar Royal 38 in Uptown Dallas.

Stay here: If you really want a festive experience, check in at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek , where the grounds are beautiful and the food is so tasty, you could dine on property every night.

Denver, Colorado 

Why we go: Unwrap the magic of the holidays in Denver this season with special events and millions of twinkling lights. Enjoy a family outing to the Denver Zoo Lights , or a fun day of shopping and ice skating downtown. Get a dose of culture with a viewing of A Christmas Carol or The Nutcracker (see the full calendar here ), then visit the Mile High Tree at the 16th Street Mall (it’s actually 110 feet tall, but that’s still pretty impressive).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Denver Christkindlmarket (one of the best German markets in the country) returns to Civic Center Park this winter, open daily now through December 23.

Stay here: The Crawford Hotel , a boutique property in LoDo’s Union Station, boasts Art Deco rooms, and the city’s most beautiful lobby. Soaring ceilings and sky-high chandeliers hang overhead, while oversized sofas and leather chairs create a casual and bustling “living room” frequented by travelers and locals alike.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Why we go: If you’re wondering where to go for Christmas celebrations unlike anywhere else, look no further. Every December, this tiny New England town bursts with holiday cheer during its annual Christmas Prelude ; check out the site and you’ll see a live countdown to the event’s start date—it’s that highly anticipated. It’s an 11-day bash that’s about as New England as it gets: one of the main attractions is a tree made of lobster traps. Speaking of, the legendary lobster rolls at hotspots like Scales , The Highroller Lobster Co. , and Miyake will make you forget about gingerbread and sugar plums altogether.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Santa Claus’s arrival at the Christmas Prelude on a lobster boat.

Stay here: According to this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards, Traveler readers love the 14-room Cape Arundel Inn & Resort for its oceanside location and restaurant serving up fresh seafood—and, unlike a lot of Maine resorts, it’s actually open during the winter months.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Why we go: If you thought Las Vegas was dazzling before, just wait until you see it decked out for Christmas. Basically, the entire Strip transforms into a winter wonderland full of festive events for the entire family. This year's activities include rooftop ice skating at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas (beginning December 2), colorful displays outside The LINQ promenade , a 6-foot-tall gingerbread man at ARIA , and a massive holiday display—complete with a 42-foot Christmas tree—at the Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Catch an iconic show at the Fountains of Bellagio to see performances set to “Santa Baby,” “Carol of the Bells,” and other holiday classics.

Stay here: It’s hard to go wrong when it comes to the hotels on the Strip in Las Vegas , especially as each property tries to outdo each other—whether for the holidays or just around the year. That said, for a classic experience, stay at The Venetian . The whole place is so marvelously over-the-top that it doesn’t matter that it looks nothing like the real Venice . That’s not the point. This is Vegas, baby.

Nashville, Tennessee

Why we go: The Music City is all about the—wait for it—music during the holiday season. From November 10 through January 1, enjoy “Country Christmas” at Gaylord Opryland , with tons of Christmas shows, plus ice skating and acres of light displays. Or head to the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway and take the two-mile drive through Jingle Beat , a light show set to remixed versions of classic Christmas carols. And when in doubt, you can always catch a yuletide show at the Grand Ole Opry .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Given the Christmas season, a hotel named Noelle seems as perfect a place as any to spend the season. Its Holiday Glow Package is a nice deal, but even cooler is its Ralphie’s Christmas experience, inspired by A Christmas Story, which features Oval-tinis and other seasonal bites (happening in the hotel’s Hidden Bar until January 8).

Stay here: Well, it’s obvious, isn’t it? Stay at the Noelle—officially Noelle, Nashville, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. It’s in the center of the downtown Nashville action, and its emphasis on art, design, and local artists and designers will help you get to know the city all the more.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Why we go: It’s no surprise that New Orleans leans into the holiday season, but we still get all tingly thinking about Christmas in the city. NOLA lights up with events like LUNA Fête , where the Central Business District around Lafayette Square fills up with installations and animated graphics from December 7 to 10. City Park also becomes a wonderland for the entire month with Celebration in the Oaks (November 23 to December 30), a festival with vendors, food and drink stands, and decorations adorning the centuries-old oak trees.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The annual Christmas Eve lighting of the bonfires along the banks of the Mississippi River is a seasonal tradition that's as authentically “New Orleans” as they come.

Stay here: The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans has lots of holiday offerings this year, including gingerbread house building and a four-course dinner on Christmas Eve.

New York City

Why we go: There’s no shortage of ways to make your New York City Christmas magical, whether it’s ice skating at Central Park, window shopping along Fifth Avenue, visiting the tree at Rockefeller Center, seeing the Rockettes in the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, or lurking around 34th Street hoping to witness a miracle.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Prepare to be incredibly and thoroughly overwhelmed (in a good way!) by the Christmas spirit in this Brooklyn neighborhood, which famously goes all out on the holiday decorations each year. Think candy cane lanes, giant snowmen, illuminated snowflakes, and too many glowing Santa Claus figures than the census can count. Lights go up after Thanksgiving and last through the New Year, so whether you’re driving through in a car or taking the pedestrian route, there’s plenty of time to take in the wall-to-wall displays of life-size nutcrackers, enormous twinkling trees, and lawn ornament reindeer. Big sleigh.

Stay here: Easy answer: The Plaza . If you've ever watched Home Alone 2 , you’ll recognize it as the hotel where young Kevin McCallister, while lost in New York, lived lavishly in a posh suite for the holidays. Fittingly, the hotel has a “Home Alone 2: Fun in New York” experience package, offered throughout the year, that lets guests mimic memorable moments from the movie. It includes a limousine ride all over the city to landmarks like Central Park and Radio City Music Hall, a large cheese pizza (to be eaten in the limo, naturally), and the Home Alone sundae, made to fit Kevin’s exacting taste (specifically: 16 scoops of assorted ice cream, whipped cream, maraschino cherries, M&M’s, brownie bits, chocolate, caramel, and raspberry sauce). If a more traditional Christmas is what you’re looking for, there’s also the “Suitest Season of All” package that comes with a seven-foot-tall decorated Balsam Hill tree placed directly in your suite.

Newport Beach, California

Why we go: The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is one of the longest-running holiday festivals in the entire country, celebrating its 115th anniversary this year from December 13 to 17. (To compare, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting has been running for 90 years.) The “parade” takes place in the harbor of Newport Beach, where yachts, boats, and kayaks have been known to show off up to $50,000 worth of decorations to millions of visitors.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: View the parade from Balboa Island , where the decorated houses threaten to upstage the passing boats.

Stay here: The nautical, all-American feel at Lido House, Autograph Collection fits in perfectly with the theme of the holiday events—especially with the addition of bright, colorful Christmas decorations in the cottages.

North Pole, Alaska

Why we go: Even though this North Pole is 1,700 miles south of the true North Pole, the quaint Alaskan town is 100 percent saturated with Christmas cheer. Most famous for the Santa Claus House (the self-proclaimed “official” home of St. Nick), the North Pole’s nominal spirit even extends to its street names: Snowman Lane, Saint Nicholas Drive, Holiday Road, and Santa Claus Lane, which has light poles shaped like candy canes. Just as adorable is the town’s post office, which gets flooded with tens of thousands of letters addressed to Santa Claus each year.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The annual tree-lighting ceremony has plenty of photo ops with Santa himself.

Stay here: The North Pole Cabins are comfortable and warm log cabin retreats, located just a mile from the Santa Claus House.

Park City, Utah

Why we go: As if the world-class skiing isn’t reason enough to visit Park City this winter, the town also happens to be a wonderful place to spend Christmas. The former Olympic city has ample opportunities for skiing, fly fishing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding—with no shortage of resorts to warm up in between runs.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Hop on a 90-minute train ride with the North Pole Express at Heber Valley Railroad, where you can sip hot cocoa and meet Mrs. Claus.

Stay here: The 12-room Washington School House is just a hop away from Park City’s lit-up Main Street, and its Christmas decorations are some of the prettiest ever seen. In nearby Deer Valley, there’s also the iconic Stein Eriksen Lodge , a luxurious chalet with easy ski-in/ski-out access. And just 25 minutes from downtown Park City Auberge Resorts’ The Lodge at Blue Sky is a perfect place to unwind in luxury.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Why we go: Santa Fe’s already-beautiful plaza becomes downright magical with the addition of Christmas lights—but the holiday spirit doesn’t start and stop there. The city also offers midnight mass at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis de Assisi , holiday exhibits at the New Mexico Museum of Art , holiday flamenco performances at El Flamenco Cabaret , and seasonal shopping at the Winter Indian Market. Even when Christmas is officially over, you can keep busy at Taos Ski Valley and Ski Santa Fe —both just an easy drive away.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Santa Fe’s annual Canyon Road Farolito Walk , a Christmas Eve event consisting of farolitos (paper bags filled with sand and topped with a votive candle) lining the streets and walls of adobe buildings, is sure to get you in a pleasant and festive mood for the occasion.

Stay here: Condé Nast Traveler ’s Readers’ Choice Award favorite Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi has a tangible warmth to it, with gaslit kiva fireplaces and hand-carved four-poster beds adorning the rooms.

Seattle, Washington

Why we go: Aside from the delightful sight of a Christmas tree atop the Space Needle, there are plenty of reasons to visit Seattle over the holidays. Your one-stop shop for holiday cheer is Winterfest at Seattle Center (November 24 to December 31), which has family-friendly activities like train rides and ice sculpting demonstrations. There’s also a huge celebration just eight miles east of Seattle in the town of Bellevue: Snowflake Lane (November 24 to December 24), a nightly light show with caroling and snow machines ensuring a white Christmas.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Sheraton Grand Seattle ’s annual Gingerbread Village is probably Seattle’s most beloved holiday tradition, in which the city’s top architecture firms and culinary teams get together to create next-level gingerbread houses. This year’s event runs from November 21 to New Year’s Day.

Stay here: With its mountain lodge interiors, The Edgewater Hotel is one of the best places to cozy up in the Pacific Northwest. If you like to fall asleep while staring out at gentle waves glistening in the moonlight, you won’t find a better spot in the city.

Seneca Falls, New York

Why we go: It’s a Wonderful Life may have been shot on an RKO soundstage in Los Angeles, but the fine folks of Seneca Falls , New York, swear that their five-square-mile upstate hamlet is the inspiration for the real Bedford Falls . Each December, they host an array of old-timey activities to prove it. This year, the event runs from December 7 to 10 and will include special film screenings, gingerbread house contests, and museum exhibits.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The “It's a Wonderful Bonfire” event on Friday, December 8, which includes caroling, a visit from Santa, and a tree-lighting ceremony.

Stay here: The Gould Hotel has elegant rooms and a restaurant serving hearty, local meals that will warm you from the inside out.

St. Augustine, Florida

Why we go: Christmas in St. Augustine is truly something to behold. The holiday season kicks off this year with the city’s annual Christmas Parade, then continues through January 28 with the famous Nights of Lights festival. During the celebration, St. Augustine glows with three million tiny white lights over the Bridge of Lions and through 20 city blocks in the historic district. Bonus: You can enjoy the whole show without wearing a coat and gloves, because, you know, Florida.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Climb aboard the Old Town Trolley’s Famous Nights of Lights Tour, which departs nightly from November 19 through January 28.

Stay here: The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens pairs all the charm of a bed and breakfast with all the amenities of a true luxury hotel. No little detail is overlooked, from interesting on-site activities (like watercolor painting in the courtyard) to immaculate turndown service. The hotel has an age minimum of 16, making this a great retreat for harried parents.

St. Louis, Missouri

Why we go: It’s been almost 80 years since Judy Garland first graced the world with “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” at the end of Meet Me in St Louis , and the Missouri city has embraced its role as one of America’s yuletide capitals ever since. Make sure you hit all the classics, like Wild Lights at the St. Louis Zoo, the poinsettia show at Jewel Box in Forest Park , and ice skating at Steinberg Rink . For the third year running, there's even a Polar Express -themed train ride at the Union Station development.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Walk among a million dazzling lights at the Missouri Botanical Garden’s annual Garden Glow , which runs from November 18 to January 6.

Stay here: You can’t beat the glittering, Gateway Arch-facing views at the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis .

Washington, D.C.

Why we go: There are few holiday displays in the nation that compare with Washington, DC’s National Christmas Tree, but other seasonal perks include private igloos at the Watergate Hotel, the Downtown Holiday Market (now through December 23), and a glorious absence of field trip groups in the Smithsonian museums.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Make it a priority to amble over to the Ford’s Theatre, which puts on an annual run of A Christmas Carol for the holidays.

Stay here: The InterContinental The Willard Washington D.C., an IHG Hotel , is just a few blocks away from the White House and National Christmas Tree, and offers a holiday afternoon tea and tons of gorgeous decorations. You’ve heard it a thousand times: “There's no place like home for the holidays.”

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Call now! 281-412-5200

Book your santa now, available in your state.

We've expanded our North Pole network to offer bookings throughout most of the USA. Schedule a visit with Santa by filling out our form and letting us know where and when you'd like Mr. Claus to visit. We also offer Skype calls if you're venue is a little out of the way.

OUR SANTA'S ARE THE BEST IN THE NORTH POLE

Book now we have you covered.

We've expanded our North Pole network to offer bookings throughout most of the USA. Schedule a visit with Santa by filling out our form and letting us know where and when you'd like Mr. Claus to visit. We also offer Skype calls if you're venue is a little out of the way. Santa visit discount for two or more hours.

Santa Visit -1 hour

Skype Call with Santa

Available in these states, connecticut, massachusetts, mississippi, new hampshire, north carolina, north dakota, pennsylvania, rhode island, south carolina, south dakota, west virginia, subscribe to our newsletter.

Wish 4 Santa

• Santa's Schedule Fills Up Fast *

- A Real Santa Claus -

Real hair, real santa beard , real santa claus suit.

SANTA SHANE IS AVAILABLE FOR IN-PERSON VISITS  – OR – VIRTUAL VISITS – TO YOUR HOME, BUSINESS, OFFICE, OR ELSEWHERE – IN Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Madison, Wisconsin – Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

AND AREAS IN-BETWEEN

BESIDES AN IN PERSON VISIT TO LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT WISCONSIN

Alternatively, this virtual santa claus can schedule a zoom virtual christmas party with you, your children, and any number of your family members, co-workers spread across the country., you can schedule a virtual santa claus visit, a virtual santa claus greeting, in any city or state in the usa, don’t forget about santa for christmas in july.

Christmas is a magical time of year, filled with joy, wonder, and traditions. For many, the image of Santa Claus delivering gifts on Christmas Eve

Why you should book Santa Claus early

It’s never too early to start planning for the holiday season, especially when it comes to thinking ahead to book Santa Claus early for your

Santa Claus with a real beard

Santa Shane with his real beard When booking a Santa Claus for an in-person, or virtual visit, it is highly recommended to select a Santa

“I believe in Santa Claus” is something we have all said. How difficult is it to find a real Santa Claus?  Your search has ended!  Santa Shane – A real Santa Claus with his real Santa Claus Suit and his real Santa Claus Beard is ready to visit you! In-Person in Wisconsin or Virtually, anywhere in the USA.

Everybody’s wish in this Holiday season is a visit from a Real Santa Claus for Christmas.  Christmas memories are filled with a few things: children, Santa, presents, and presence.  Don’t miss out this year, book an in person or  virtual Santa visit today!  

When you schedule a visit from a Real Santa Claus, Santa will call his contact to let them know he is about to appear for your visit.  This allows time for you to get children and other guests inside and ready for the big arrival!  The Christmas magic begins as Santa enters the room with a big ho-ho-ho, jiggling his bells and accessing how the children are accepting him.  Santa does not like to approach children immediately if they are afraid.  The idea is to have children who are not afraid give Santa a hug, a high five or shake his hand.  This is good for the children who are afraid to see and get more comfortable.  Santa also likes to give special attention to senior adults, because Santa Claus brings back so many special memories for them. Santa Claus effects everybody in so many different ways.  Then, depending upon the group that is in attendance, Santa can pass out presents and pose with children, families, and guests for photographs, as Santa likes to interact with each person individually.  You might have read that Santa’s background was in childcare, and he has been doing this for more than a decade.

Santa knows what small children usually like, what tweens and teens don’t like (not to sit on Santa Claus’s lap), and of course, the senior adults – they love the Man in the red suit!  

Depending upon the time allotted, Santa can read the story  Twas the Night Before Christmas .  If you would like to print out song lyrics the group and Santa can sing along to some carols you have printed out. 

Christmas and Santa go together like macaroni and cheese. 

As a parent or guardian, you likely grew up with Christmas Santa visits. 

Santa Shane is available for in person visits – to your home, office, or elsewhere – in Wisconsin Dells – Madison –  Milwaukee and areas in-between. Alternatively, this virtual Santa can schedule a Zoom  Virtual Christmas Party with any number of your family members spread out across the world.  Are you unable to go visit Santa Claus in person with children?  This real Santa Claus is available to visit you virtually via Zoom!  Anybody can be a Santa Claus. This is not just a phone number to call real Santa Claus; this is a real Santa Claus interacting live with your children.  In person, or via Zoom.    Book your visit today!

If Grandparents or other family members live far away, they can join in on the video chat with Zoom.  How fun will it be for Grandma or Grandpa to see the excitement on your children’s faces when they see this real Santa Claus virtually?   They too can join in on the video call and watch as Santa visits your home virtually through Zoom .  

Santa Claus with a Real Beard travels from Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, to Madison, Wisconsin to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and areas in-between.

You know Santa Claus lives at the North Pole. This real Santa has a residence in Wisconsin .

While Santa Shane might not arrive in a real Santa Sleigh, you can be sure this Santa will arrive with his Santa real beard, and real Santa Claus suit.  That’s right; this is not a bad Santa Claus costume!  But an authentic Santa Claus suit. 

There is nothing more precious at Christmas time than Santa Claus with children. Santa home visits and corporate events are available again this upcoming Christmas season.  While Santa likes to visit homes in a car, and not a real Santa Sleigh (parking is so difficult with the sleigh!), Santa Shane comes to you with a real Santa Claus suit, and a real Santa beard.

A Real Santa Claus Suit

A real santa claus beard, a real santa claus, jolly reviews, {from real customers}.

• Angie L. • January 7, 2022
• Thomas M. • December 19, 2021
• Karin T. • December 19, 2021

wish 4 santa

Santa is ready to make you a believer.

Everybody’s wish in this Holiday season is a visit from a real Santa Claus for Christmas. Christmas memories are filled with a few things: children, Santa, presents, and presence. Don’t miss out this year, book an in person or virtual Santa visit today!

Santa Visit

Santa Across America…

Our Santas don’t all live at the North Pole!  They can be found in cities and towns across the country.  We have many volunteer Santas ready, willing and eager to help you, or your child or family by bringing Love, Hope, and Joy.

Do you need a Santa to help your child or family during a crisis? We provide loving, caring visits to children and their families in hospitals and hospices, or your home. We work with special needs children, terminally ill children and with children suffering from the results of a natural disaster, or just a situational crisis.

The growing number of people with special needs requires that we enlist more Santas to keep our work going and to continue to spread Love, Joy and Hope.

If you would like to become one of Santa America’s Santas, Inquire Here , so we can help you join our mission to serve children and families across the country.   When Santa arrives to visit, he brings empathy and compassion to ensure that his visit delivers Love, Hope, and Joy.

Help us keep Santa in his sleigh, delivering love, hope and joy year round…

Schedule a Visit

What is 7+6?

Experience the Magic of Santa Claus Up Close!

Magical Santa Home Visits

Turn your living room into a festive wonderland with Santa home visits from a professional Santa Claus entertainer. Songs, stories, and unforgettable memories await. Dive in and see how to make your home visit the most memorable one yet!

Get ready to believe in the magic all over again.

Close your eyes and imagine a world bathed in soft, golden light from twinkling fairy lights, the comforting aroma of freshly baked gingerbread teasing your senses. The gentle hiss and pop from a roaring fireplace blend harmoniously with the distant sound of carolers. Then, as the enchantment thickens the air, a knock resonates at your front door, heralding the surprise visit of the one and only Santa Claus at your Christmas party, eager to spin an evening of dreams for you and your loved ones.

Why Invite Santa Claus for a Home Visit?

The true magic of Christmas isn’t in all the gifts under the Christmas tree or the lavish feasts; it’s in the experiences we share, the memories we create. Inviting Santa Claus to your home is an invitation to a deeper, more enchanting realm of Christmas – a world where legends come alive, and imagination knows no bounds.

Imagine the looks on everyone’s faces when Santa arrives and Santa makes his grand entrance . Each laugh, each gasp of wonder, becomes a thread in the tapestry of tales told for generations to come.

Activities to Expect During Santa Home Visits

Carol singing with santa.

The Magic of Melodies: From the classics that have adorned countless Christmases to lesser-known North Pole tunes, Santa’s repertoire is vast and versatile. With each note, the room seems to grow warmer, brighter. Perhaps you’ll even learn a carol or two that’s exclusive to the elves! By the time the last notes of “Silent Night” reverberate, you’ll feel the very essence of Christmas in every corner of your heart.

Joining in the Chorus: Don’t just be a spectator; this is an interactive experience. Sing along, clap to the beat, or even take the lead on your kid’s favorite song. Santa’s booming voice guiding the melody and his jolly laughter filling in the gaps make this a truly communal celebration of the festive spirit.

Playful and Merry Games

North Pole Traditions: Dive into the playful world of reindeer games and elvish antics. Santa visits can bring a treasure trove of games from his home in the Arctic — some familiar, others mysterious, but all filled with wonder and delight. Perhaps you’ll engage in a snowball toss (without the frosty fingers) or embark on a scavenger hunt, seeking out hidden North Pole treasures around your home.

Shared Laughter: As dice roll and cards turn, it’s not just about who wins or loses but the shared laughter, the friendly banter, and the pure joy of playing under Santa’s jovial supervision. Each game becomes a memory, a story to be recounted at future Christmases.

Capturing the Moments: Photo Sessions with Santa

Setting the Scene: Santa is no stranger to the limelight. Under his guidance, transform photos of your living space into a picture-perfect Christmas tableau. Whether it’s in front of the Christmas tree, by the fireplace, or with a backdrop of twinkling lights, your photos are poised to be a masterpiece.

From Candid to Posed: While the traditional Santa-and-me portraits are a must, also look forward to candid moments — a shared joke, wide-eyed wonder, or even a playful wink. These spontaneous snapshots often hold the most treasured memories. And don’t forget the all important group photo – recording the one singular moment when all the kids were together.

Story Time: Magical Christmas Tales

Journey Beyond the Ordinary: Santa’s sack isn’t just filled with toys but also tales from the farthest corners of the world, and beyond. As he narrates, feel the room transform — the walls might echo with the northern lights, or the floor might chill with the touch of the Arctic snow. Every story is a passport to a world where magic is the norm.

Interactive Narration: It’s not just about listening. Santa encourages questions, interruptions for wild guesses, and even for little ones to weave their own endings. Perhaps the brave elf in the story gets a new name tonight, inspired by an eager listener in the room.

Sharing Christmas Wishes Directly

Heartfelt Conversations: This isn’t a rushed exchange. With a twinkle in his eye and an open heart, Santa leans in to listen to every wish, no matter how big or small. From the latest toy to world peace, every dream is valid, and every whisper finds a listening ear.

Magic in the Making: As wishes are whispered, Santa might give a knowing nod or a cryptic smile, making one wonder what surprises Christmas morning will hold. This is a moment of pure hope and wonder, a bond between the dreamer and the legendary gift-bringer.

Each of these activities isn’t just a mere task; it’s a thread in the rich tapestry of your Christmas celebration, made all the more memorable by Santa’s magical touch.

Preparing to Meet Santa: What Families Need to Know

Setting the scene.

Creating the Right Ambiance: The visit of a Santa Claus entertainer is a theatrical experience, so setting the right mood can heighten the delight. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, and perhaps a dedicated space for the entertainer to perform or interact with the family can make a difference. Having holiday melodies playing softly in the background sets a festive tone.

Props and Decor: The more festive your space looks, the more immersive the experience will be. Hang stockings, display holiday crafts, or even designate a special “Santa’s chair” for the entertainer to sit in.

Refreshments for Santa

A Considerate Gesture: While we often think of leaving treats out for Santa, it’s a thoughtful touch to offer your Santa Claus a refreshment. Whether it’s a glass of water, a cup of tea, or a plate of cookies, this gesture ensures he’s energized for the performance.

Personal Touches

Notes and Wish Lists: Encourage children to prepare any letters, wish lists, or drawings they might want to share with the Santa Claus entertainer. It can be a part of the interaction, making the experience feel genuine and engaging.

Incorporate Family Traditions: If you have special holiday traditions, let the entertainer know ahead of time. Whether you always tell a particular story or sing a specific song, the entertainer can weave these special needs into the visit, making it uniquely yours.

Safety First

Ensuring Easy Access: Make sure there’s a clear path for the entertainer to move around, especially if they bring props or gifts as part of their act. Clear any hazards to ensure a smooth performance.

Pre-visit Communication: If there are any particular guidelines or requirements you’d like the entertainer to know before person visit – maybe about house rules, pets, or specific family customs – it’s good to share these details ahead of time. Our Santa Claus is a professional who strives to make his visit seamless, fun and accommodating.

Embracing the Experience

Participation is Key: While the Santa Claus entertainer is there to lead the festivities, active group participation can elevate the experience. Whether it’s joining in a song, engaging a child in a story, or playing a game, being involved makes the visit memorable.

Preparing for the visit from a Santa Claus entertainer is all about blending your family’s traditions with the magic the entertainer brings. Together, these elements craft a festive evening filled with memories, joy, and holiday spirit.

Safety and Professionalism: Santa’s Promise

Santa’s visits, while magical, are rooted in the reality of today’s world. Every chuckle, every whispered secret is ensconced in an environment of safety. Rest assured, Santa’s age-old values are seamlessly merged with the latest health and safety protocols.

Testimonials: Magical Moments from Families

Packing up the sleigh.

The charm of Christmas lies not just in the day itself but in the myriad magical moments leading up to it. A personal visit from Santa Claus weaves these moments into a shimmering tapestry of joy, wonder, and warmth. It’s not just an event; it’s an heirloom, an experience passed down through stories, smiles, and sparkling eyes.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

How long does a santa claus home visit last.

It’s a timeless dance, where minutes might feel like moments and hours like a fleeting dream. Just the right blend for an evening of magic!

But seriously … it depends . A home visit should be long enough for a magical experience, but not so long that Santa starts to feel familair. Talk to your professional Santa Claus about the number of attendees and the types of activities you’d like to include during your home visit. They’ll be able to help create a unique and memorable visit that you’ll cherish fondly.

Can we customize activities for a home visit?

Santa thrives on surprises! Share your vision, and let Santa blend it with his magic for a tailored festive evening.

Is a Santa Claus home visit suitable for all age groups?

Absolutely! From toddlers taking their first Christmas steps to grandparents reliving yesteryears’ joys, Santa’s magic bridges hearts of all ages.

With a sprinkle of fairy dust, a dash of dreams, and a sleigh full of surprises, Santa awaits. Are you ready to unlock the door to a Christmas you’ll never forget?

Ready to Make This Christmas Eve Unforgettable?

Time waits for none, and neither does Santa’s bustling schedule. With every tick-tock of the grandfather clock, slots fill up. To weave your own Yuletide tale with Santa, it’s best to book ahead. After all, anticipation is half the joy!

Don’t miss out on a chance to bring the enchantment of Santa Claus right to your living room. Book your visit with House of Kringle now and create memories your family will cherish for years. Let the magic of the season come alive in your home this year!

AmazingSantaVisits.com

Hello. Welcome to AmazingSantaVisits.com 

                  , offering in person visits near  cincinnati, ohio and, virtual visits across america (usa)  .

Welcome to Amazing Santa Visits!

Ho Ho Ho! Greetings, everyone!

It’s Santa here, and I’m thrilled to welcome you to our new domain web site.

www.AmazingSantaVisits.com .  I’m so excited to share with you the wonderful services we offer to bring joy and magic to your holiday season. This is our new home together!

1. Live Visits with Santa in Southern Ohio Areas

2. Virtual Visits Covering the Whole USA!         Santa Visits USA

3. Personalized Video Messages Sent Year Round

4. Santa Packages for Business and Family

I hope this message finds you well and fills your heart with joy and anticipation for the wonderful experiences we have in store for you at AmazingSantaVisits.com!

www.AmazingSantaVisits.com    

Locally Owned and Operated  

My Santa Business is a locally owned and operated enterprise by a real person who embodies the spirit of Santa Claus. This unique business offers the opportunity for individuals, families, and businesses to book personalized visits from Santa Claus himself. Unlike traditional agencies, My Santa Business prides itself on providing authentic and genuine interactions with clients, fostering a sense of tradition and joy in homes and businesses.

The proprietor of My Santa Business extends a warm invitation to both past and prospective customers to secure their bookings for Santa visits. By emphasizing the personal touch and individualized attention, this Santa aims to create memorable experiences for all involved. The goal is to establish long-term relationships with clients, potentially making annual visits a cherished tradition.

TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL ZOOM VISITS

Do you have a testimonial that Santa could include on the new website?

Subscribe Form for SHARED GALLERY

Thanks for subscribing!

Great Places to See Santa

Looking for somewhere magical to see Santa this year? Instead of taking a trip to the local mall, journey to one of these 13 places for a unique and special experience with Santa Claus.

Santa's Workshop, North Pole, New York

Santa's Workshop, North Pole, NY 

12 miles from Lake Placid in the Adirondacks is North Pole , New York, a "workshop village" open in summer and on weekends leading up to Christmas. Santa's village has shops, farm animals, candy makers, glassblowers, puppet shows, and a talking Christmas tree. Rides include Santa's Sleigh Coaster and Reindeer Carousel.

Christmas at Disney World

Walt Disney World

Starting in mid-November,  Walt Disney World celebrates Christmas . 1500 trees are put into place, and major annual celebrations get underway. The biggest event happens in the Magic Kingdom, where Mickey has a  Very Merry Christmas Party  on many nights, and Mickey's Very Merry Parade features Santa on a sleigh, a March of the Wooden Soldiers and dancing gingerbread men. 

Grinchmas at Universal Orlando

Seuss Landing , at Islands of Adventure in Orlando, is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Citizens of Whoville spread holiday cheer and the Grinch himself stars in a retelling of the story about when he stole Christmas. You can even get an autograph after the show ends.

Christmas Candylane at Hersheypark

Hersheypark 

Hershey, Pennsylvania, aka "Chocolate Town USA", serves up a lot of family fun every year during Christmastime, including opportunities to see Santa. Most notably, the Hersheypark theme park opens up for  Christmas Candylane , with more than one million twinkling lights, Santa and live reindeer, a Christmas show, a giant carousel, and other decorated rides.

The Polar Express and Other Christmas Trains

Napa Valley Wine Train

"The Polar Express" is a beautifully illustrated children's book (and blockbuster movie) by Chris Van Allsburg about a child's  train ride to see Santa  at the North Pole. In a number of locations in the U.S., a family can have a "Polar Express" experience: a real-life train ride for kids, that re-creates the mood and even some events from the classic book.

Victorian Holiday Wonderland in Breckenridge, Colorado

GoBreck, Breckenridge Tourism Office

Breckenridge is one of Colorado's excellent ski destinations and is also a quaint town with Victorian architecture that dates back to mining days. Have fun with your kids in the Victorian Christmas atmosphere, with decorated shops on Main Street and the Lighting of Breckinridge when Santa arrives in town in​ a horse-drawn sleigh.

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

Colonial Williamsburg is fun throughout the year, with a beautifully restored historic district, peopled by real-life actors bringing to life the days just before the American Revolution. Create a Swedish Santa out of yarn at Bassett Hall; visit Hennage Auditorium and meet Russia's Grandfather Frost, Italy's La Befana, and America's Santa Claus; and learn about the history of Christmas around the globe.

Holiday Windows in New York

littleny/Getty Images

In New York City, the Christmas spirit gets started with Santa's appearance at the  Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade , which kicks off the season of  Christmas sparkle in NYC . Catch a glimpse intricate window displays at retailers like Macy's, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdales, and more.

The Christmas Town in Bethlehem, Connecticut

Connecticut Office of Tourism

Bethlehem, a pretty place to visit, in Connecticut's Litchfield Hills, is a small town that makes the most of its name at Christmas time. Each December, thousands of people make a pilgrimage to Bethlehem to mark their Christmas mail with not only the Bethlehem postmark, but also special rubber-stamps known as "cachets". The best time for families to visit is during the Bethlehem Christmas Town Festival, a two-day event in early December. Opening night has a candlelight processional, and the arrival of Santa to light a 75-foot Christmas Tree.

Santa Claus, Indiana

 Santa Claus, Indiana

Santa Claus  is a great name for a town, most kids would agree. This town in southern Indiana got its name way back in 1856. By 1935, someone had seen the potential for the place to be a tourist attraction, and "Santa's Candy Castle" was opened, reportedly the first themed attraction in the United States.

Christmas in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Bill Heinsohn/Getty Images

Santa Fe , with its adobe architecture, and a mix of Anglo, Hispanic, and Native American cultures, is a strikingly beautiful city to explore. At Christmas-time, traditions from these three cultures come together for a unique festive season.

For starters, there are the "farolitos", the "little lanterns", also called "luminarias": hundreds of glowing lights line walkways and rooftops, each one a small paper bag with a candle set in sand inside. On Christmas Eve, the Santa Fe Plaza glows with farolitos.

A good place for kids to see Santa and his elves is "Christmas at the Palace", with Hispanic, Anglo, and Native American Christmas traditions, carols, storytelling, Matachine dancers, and an appearance by Santa Claus. "The Palace" is the  Palace of the Governors , an elegant adobe-style building dating back to the 17th century. Christmas at the Palace dates are typically early in the month.

See Santa at Christmas Grottos in London

Alan Copson/Getty Images

Kids in the U.K. see Santa, not at his Workshop, but in his "grotto." His grotto isn't dark or cave-like, but rather a Christmas-y setting with elves, bright lights, decorated trees, etc.

Apparently, the tradition started in Adelaide, Australia, with a "Magic Cave" set up in a department store in 1896, and the practice caught on in British stores. Nowadays, you can find a "Santa's Grotto" at most department stores and shopping centers in the U.K. Kids line up to see Santa and get a little gift. Grottos are not always free; some charge the equivalent of $5 or more (and presumably Father Christmas then gives the kids a nicer little gift).

Families ready to grab their winter coats and off-season airfares can have a wonderful London Christmas that includes holiday lights at famous sights, outdoor skating rinks, the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, caroling, Christmas markets , and generally a good chance to imagine you're back in Christmas Past where Scrooge and Bob Cratchit walked the Victorian-era streets. London also has a gigantic New Year's Day parade .

Santa's Village, White Mountains, New Hampshire

Santa's Village

This amusement park for little kids is open for the summer season, with Christmas-themed rides like the "Reindeer Coaster" and the "Yule Log Flume Ride". Kids can see Santa and his reindeer even in July. Santa's Village re-opens after Thanksgiving for special weekends leading up to Christmas Eve. Most rides are open; fun includes Christmas carousel, ferries wheel, Santa's Express Train, and visits with Santa.

The 15 Best Christmas Towns in the US

15 Things to Do in Nashville in December

11 Kid-Friendly Vacations to Take in December

Guide to Christmas in New Mexico: Activities, Events and Shopping

RV Destinations Perfect for Celebrating Christmas

The 6 Best U.S. Destinations to Visit for Christmas

Where to Go for the Holidays in 2019

7 Best Small-Town Christmas Festivals in the United States

Holiday Shows and Performances in Orlando

Where to See Santa in New York City

Guide to Christmas in Washington, D.C.: Holiday Events and Attractions

Guide to Christmas in London: Events, Holiday Lights, Things to Do

Christmas Town at Busch Gardens

The Best Christmas and Holiday Events in the Southeast U.S. for 2022

Guide to Christmas in Hershey, Pennsylvania

Christmas in Scandinavia: Traditions, Events, and Foods

Santa pictures at the mall? Virtual visits remain popular option as parents avoid RSV

While many families will make the trek to their local mall in the coming weeks to get the traditional photo of the kids with Santa, a trend that started during the pandemic appears here to stay: Virtual Santa visits. 

For a fee, dozens of websites offer the option to chat with Santa via Zoom, Facetime, Skype or other video chat apps. 

Sites like  houseofkringle.com ,  santaed.com ,  visitsantaonzoom.com  and hiresanta.com  offer a personalized experience with a professional Santa from the comfort of your own home. 

Virtual visits gained popularity during the pandemic as people aimed to avoid the coronavirus. But the appeal remains this season as cases of the respiratory virus RSV are on the rise and parents worry about young children being hospitalized as a result. 

$9.12 BILLION SPENT IN ONE DAY: New Black Friday online spending record set in 2022, report says

Is RSV on the rise in 2022?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cases of respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, are much higher than normal this season . The disease is especially dangerous for young children who often have to be hospitalized to treat the virus. 

WHAT TO KNOW: Amoxicillin shortage in US fueled by surge in pediatric RSV cases

PERSONAL STORY: My infant grandson was hospitalized for RSV. It's not something to take lightly.

RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in children younger than 1 year of age in the United States, according to the CDC.

The hospitalization rate for RSV in mid-November was four times as high as the same time last year, according to CDC data. 

What are the advantages of a virtual Santa visit?

Besides avoiding germs, having a virtual Santa visit allows kids to have more personal one-on-one time with Father Christmas without holding up a long line of annoyed mallgoers. 

You also don't have to stand in said line. 

And if your kid is the one who freaks, cries or is otherwise terrified of being put on a stranger's lap, a virtual call may make for a comfortable experience for them. 

SANTA SHORTAGE?: You may be too late to book a Santa for your Christmas party: Here's how you can become one

"Getting the family ready for photos with Santa, driving to the mall, and waiting in long lines – these are holiday traditions best left in the past! Comfy pajamas and hot cocoa are all you need to get ready for your video call from Santa!" says House of Kringle's website .  

Sending information ahead of time about your kids' interests will also make the experience more magical and personal. 

How much does a Zoom with Santa cost?

Because you're getting a private audience with the big man himself, a virtual Santa visit will cost a bit more than a typical mall photo – although there's no spending on gas for the car or impulse buys while at the shopping center. 

The shortest sessions, typically 10 to 15 minutes, start in price at about $30 and go up from there depending on the Santa, the length of the call, and whether it's during the day on a weekday or a more peak time like Christmas Eve. 

'DON'T FORGET ABOUT ME': USPS' Operation Santa looking for donors to make magic this year

The most expensive session USA TODAY found was $750 for a 55-minute call on a holiday with Santa Ed Taylor , a regular in Hollywood playing Santa in many commercials and TV shows. 

Many Santas also offer the option to purchase a pre-recorded video message, which can cost a bit less. You'll provide Santa with details about your kids, like ages and interests and Santa will send a video saying hello to them. 

Follow Katie Wedell on Twitter: @KatieWedell and Facebook:  facebook.com/ByKatieWedell

Santa Visits USA

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

Serving Denver Area

You Might Also Consider

All You Need is Love

Valentine's Day, Birthdays, Celebrations - we create custom balloon and flower gifts and decor for events and parties that will dazzle and inspire your recipients and guests! Contact us - we'd love to work with you on the perfect… read more

in Floral Designers, Balloon Services

Becca’s Custom Designz

We serve our clients with luxury style decor and create unforgettable moments! We take every detail of your vision and work with diligence and passion and ensure we execute with excellence. read more

in Party & Event Planning

The Joy of Balloons

We provide balloon decor and balloon artists for corporate events, galas, birthday parties and more. Call us to discuss your next spectacular event. read more

in Balloon Services, Party & Event Planning

Amenities and More

1 More Attribute

About the Business

Business owner information

Business Owner

American Events Sant-A-Grams Pro Santas since 1983! Corporate, Private, Civic, Malls, Business Promotions & More! For 39 years... Providing the very BEST in Professional Santa Claus Entertainment! Virtual parties & Visits available across the USA & Canada. …

Ask the Community

Ask a question

Yelp users haven’t asked any questions yet about Santa Visits USA .

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

Do not use this company to do an online Santa visit. They totally jerked me around and said they were setting up a visit. I told me two-year-old he was getting a visit and it did not happen. Very disappointing for me and him

Jan 9, 2021

Jen, We are very sorry you are upset. We sent you a confirmation of your visit asking for you to pick a scheduling time and provide information for Santa to speak with your child. We called and spoke with you personally to verify the email address you had given us was correct. We resent the emails three more times trying to schedule your visit. Your payment was refunded when you did not reply to the emails. We again are very sorry you were unable to communicate back with us to complete your Santa Virtual visit. We truly hope you have a blessed & healthy year ahead.

2 other reviews that are not currently recommended

Colorado Mobile Music

9.8 miles away from Santa Visits USA

We had an absolutely incredible experience with Colorado Mobile Music for our wedding day! They offered a comprehensive package that included DJ services, a fantastic Party Bus, and a delightful Photobooth. From start to finish, the… read more

in Party Bus Rentals, Audio/visual Equipment Rental, Djs

Drinks In The City

Call and book today, "¡Reserva el Bar Móvil de Libros para tu próximo evento!" "Renta de Fotomatón 360, ¡reserva hoy mismo!" Affordable drink catering, event staffing, & 360/traditional photo booth services. Observa cómo tus… read more

in Photo Booth Rentals, Bartenders

People Also Viewed

Santa Claus and Company

Elevation Event Rentals

Rent A Party Character

Balloon Innovations

The Denver Balloon Guy

A Casino Event

Wright Group Event Services

Balloonatics

Colorado Party Rentals

Party Time Rental

Browse Nearby

Things to Do

Face Painting

Trampoline Parks

Pinata Store

Party Characters in Denver

Get free quotes on Yelp now

Other Party Characters Nearby

Find more Party Characters near Santa Visits USA

Birthday Party Entertainers Near Me

Related Cost Guides

Boat Charters

Boudoir Photography

Party Bike Rentals

Party Supplies

Valet Services

• 5 More Cost Guides

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories .

The Best Places to See Santa Across the Country

By Alexandra Macon

The countdown is officially on. It’s T-2 weeks until Christmas, and if you’re like me you’ve left taking your kids to see Santa Claus to what feels like the eleventh hour. In New York City, finding a place where your children can sit on Saint Nick’s lap that’s relatively stress-free isn’t child’s play. There are queues to contend with everywhere you go—and waiting doesn’t bode well for my fidgety almost-2-year-old. Those in the know download apps that allow you to make reservations in advance. But even armed with technology, you often end up feeling powerless. There’s only so much your smart phone can do when you’re faced with weekends that are booked solid and relegated to a weekday time slot during regular office hours (not an easy feat for a working mom). After five Santa visits for two kids under my belt—for which I’ve spent countless hours in line—I have a thing or two to share about how to see dear old Saint Nick. Here’s hoping your encounter is merry—and there aren’t any meltdowns to speak of . . . from kids or parents.

Have a favorite Santa that we’ve left off the list? Let us know in the comments below, and we’ll add him.

Baby Braithwaite 102 West Paces Ferry Road NW This idyllic children’s store in Atlanta’s Buckhead neighborhood hosts Santa on Fridays and Saturdays early in the holiday season. It’s $75 per sitting, but you walk away with a flash drive full of photos. Appointments cannot be changed or canceled and are nonrefundable—and a source claims they sell out four minutes after going live on their site. “That said, it’s so civilized, calm, and quiet,” says a mom of two who’s been five times. “Santa is also seriously handsome. I actually think he’s the real one.”

Phipps Plaza 3500 Peachtree Rd NE The Santa Claus at Phipps Plaza is practically famous in Atlanta. He’s been there forever and reportedly parents start making reservations as early as July. Rumor has it the old man brings in over $100k a season’s work—and people come from far and wide to see him. Parents who visited him as children get a real kick out of bringing their own kids.

James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Millions of multicolored lights decorate this county park for its annual Holiday Festival of Lights, which Coastal Living dubbed one of the “Top 10 Holiday Celebrations” and USA Today called one of the “Best Public Lights Displays.” Guests can take it all in by car or on foot, exploring more than 700 light displays, and then finish off their tour with a visit with Saint Nick. He’s on location at Santa’s Village every night through December 23.

By William Norwich

By Janelle Okwodu

** Marion Square **The intersection of Calhoun and King Streets Every Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. through December 18, Santa and Mrs. Claus are available for a photo op, situated in the corner of this park, in the heart of downtown Charleston. Music by local children’s choirs and bands often serves as a festive backdrop to this picturesque setting.

Macy’s 111 North State Street The former Marshall Fields store was converted into a Macy’s about a decade ago, but many still refer to Chi-town’s Santaland by its original “Cozy Cloud” name. Located on the fifth floor, Saint Nick has being seeing visitors from this space since 1948. More recently, a helpful texting system has been implemented. Once lines are 45 minutes long, customers’ phone numbers are taken and text messages are sent with estimated wait times so people can shop or eat while they wait.

North Park Mall 8687 North Central Expressway This upscale shopping mall has had the same Santa for over twenty-five years. He’s located on level one within Macy's Shopping Court and locals have made visiting him an annual holiday tradition. Story time with Santa is at 10:30 A.M. Monday through Thursday and at noon on Sundays. According to one Dallas-based mom, “He is classic—which a beautiful jolly face, white hair, and a beard. Dallas loves him!”

Los Angeles

The Grove 189 The Grove Drive Santa is at The Grove through December 24. Online reservations are already booked up, but walk-ins are welcome, just be prepared to wait. On Tuesday, December 13, you can bring your pets in for photos, too.

New York City

ABC Carpet & Home—Union Square 888 Broadway, between East 18th and East 19th Streets This extremely authentic-looking Santa Claus is legit. He boasts a real beard, rosy cheeks, and a button nose that’ll make you believe. His remaining appearances are limited to December 11 and 18 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and there are the lines to prove he’s in hot demand. The Cons: The majority of your time spent in line is outside, which can be hard on wiggly little ones and when temps are frigid. There’s also no professional photographer on site, so you have to have your iPhone ready while also skillfully positioning your child on Santa’s knee for your own personal photo op. The Pros: It’s free! And, he’s one of the best Santas we’ve ever seen. Parents can window-shop at ABC and scan the prices of Oriental rugs while they wait—and kids get a chic felt ornament as a parting gift afterward.

Macy’s—Midtown 151 West 34th Street, between Broadway and Seventh Avenue, Eighth Floor Macy’s Santaland is pretty much Mecca. Starting right after Thanksgiving and running through December 24, the store transforms a floor into a North Pole village complete with an enchanted forest and an awe-inspiring train display. To say the line is long would be an understatement, but while you wait, you wander through said village and that’s all part of the experience. If you want to hop the queue, you can sign up for an express pass up to 48 hours prior to meeting Santa, but then you get only a quick peek at Santaland before meeting the Big Guy.

The Plaza Hotel Fifth Avenue at Central Park South Located in the concourse level, The Plaza Food Hall is bustling with holiday shoppers grabbing a quick bite to eat. Santa is ensconced in a plushly decorated side area where he sits atop a chaise surrounded by lots of white faux fur. The Eloise Shop is just beyond the line that typically forms around 30 minutes before the Big Guy shows up. If you’re with another adult, one person can wait in line while the other takes the kids to check out the gift shop. You have to pay for image packages, but the setup is festive and the photographer does a good job of coaxing smiles from the kids, so it’s likely well worth it.

Brookfield Place 230 Vesey Street at West Street There’s an app you can download to make reservations. While you have to pay, nothing beats skipping the lines. They’re already booked up this weekend—but weekdays next week boast many an opening. There’s an ice rink outside where skating is free and a food court upstairs, so Brookfield Plaza is definitely a worthwhile option if you can get a reservation. The Nutcracker characters also show up on select dates, which can make for an even cooler experience. Photo packages start at $27, and while waiting in line kids can take part in holiday-themed activities like ornament-making. The schedule is a little wonky, though, so make sure you review the times on the website carefully.

San Francisco

Macy’s 170 O’Farrell Street Just like in NYC, Macy’s Santaland in San Francisco has pretty much cornered the market on creating the ideal Christmas setting for Santa to park his sleigh and meet with kids.

** Santa Under the Dome at Westfield Mall **865 Market Street You’ll find Saint Nick on Level 4 under the historic Dome. In addition to kids, there are designated days when pets can pose for pics, too. To take a shortcut, visit the website and book a Fast Pass in advance.

Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens Located about 10 miles southwest of downtown Savannah, the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens is a wonderful green space open to the public. From the Friday after Thanksgiving until Christmas Eve, to celebrate the season, the garden is decorated with one million lights that guests can take in via a self-guided walking tour. Mrs. Claus steals the spotlight on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. when she hosts story time. And then, you can visit with Saint Nick on Saturdays between 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with the exception of Christmas Eve—due to a pretty obvious prior obligation.

Get updates on the Met Gala

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Vogue. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Think Out Loud

This holiday season, demand is up for professional santas.

Broadcast: Tuesday, Dec. 14

Rev. Dr. Leroy Barber, aka Black Santa, uses a giant snow globe to keep everyone safe at his events during the pandemic.

courtesy of Leroy Barber

Last year, many professional Santas talked to kids virtually. That was before the big vaccine rollout and long before FDA approval for vaccinating kids as young as 5. In year two of the pandemic, the holiday landscape looks a little different. And more people are seeking out in-person Santa visits. Professional Santas are in demand for public and private events and, in some cases, that demand outstrips what these friendly, bearded individuals came to expect in pre-pandemic years.

Rev. Dr. Leroy Barber, aka Black Santa PDX , says he’s doing at least twice as many events this year as he did in 2019. Susan Mesco has also seen explosive demand for in-person Santas. She’s the founder and director of the Professional Santa Claus School and president of American Events & Promotions and SantaVisitsUSA. We hear from Barber, Mesco and Barb Wright, owner of Oodles Toy Store in Portland.

The following transcript was created by a computer and edited by a volunteer:

Dave Miller:  Here is a quick warning to parents before we actually start our next conversation, it’s become a kind of annual caveat. We’re going to be talking about Kris Kringle (S A N T A) for the people who maybe aren’t spelling yet, but care about the magic of the season, I don’t think we’re going to be grinching on the magic of the season, but we are going to be talking about the fact that professionals put on the classic red and white suit. So if that’s going to cause problems in your household, this is your chance to turn off the radio. Okay, here we go. After last year’s first COVID-19 Christmas, it seems that many people want to get back to some of their old traditions that might include taking their kids to see Santa. But nationwide it seems that there are not enough santas to meet that demand. We’re going to get a couple perspectives on this right now. We start with the Reverend Dr. Leroy Barber, he is the Director of Innovation for an Engaged Church for the Greater Northwest Area of the United Methodist Church. For a few months out of the year he is also Black Santa PDX. Welcome back to Think out Loud.

Reverend Dr. Leroy Barber: Thanks for having me back. Good to be here.

Miller:  It’s good to have you on. How does this year compare to last in terms of the amount of bookings you’re getting calls about the amount of calls you’re getting?

Barber: The calls are piled up. We are probably double of what we were last year and even before COVID-19.

Miller: So not just more than last year, but more than pre COVID-19?

Barber: Yes.

Miller: Those are two different things. But let’s start with the increase from last year. How do you explain it? What do you think is happening?

Barber: Well, we have a big snow globe that I sit in to take pictures and we made a decision to continue that and maybe families want to continue to be safe. We also are just growing in popularity around Oregon and I think people want to see  a black Santa, a Santa of Color and I think that’s just a growing thing in our area.

Miller: We talked about the snow globe thing last year. You came up with the idea or a friend of yours did I think to put yourself inside this gigantic plastic bubble. So you’re basically inside a snow globe. That way kids can still be close to Santa, but you’re not breathing the same air. And it’s your sense that that’s one of the reasons that families are happy to have you around? \

Barber: I think so because most families actually, all families that come to see me are masked– the parents and kids– and they walk up masked and the only time they take them off is when they take their pictures so I think families are being extremely careful and the globe represents that. Also, you still get the magic of Santa.

Miller: What kinds of reactions have you been getting from kids this year?

Barber: We have a lot of requests for a lot of different toys that some, I don’t know because I’m older.

Miller: But that sounds like the classic. That’s why you’re there, right, kids come up and tell you what they want?

Barber:  Yeah. So I didn’t know what an L. O. L. Doll was. I do now but that’s a highly-requested item this year.  I think it’s just the magic of the moment. Kids seem to be into it still even older kids and we get adults coming to take pictures with Santa. So I just think a little bit of joy, a little bit of something good in people’s lives are what people are craving and Santa represents that.

Miller: It is still the case that a lot of the kids who are coming to you are kids of Color?

Barber:  Probably about 70% of the kids who come to us are kids of Color, Biracial kids, families a lot, and members of the LGBTQIA community come who have adopted children of Color.

Miller: What’s it meant to you to put the suit back on this season after yet another difficult and you know disrupted year.

Barber: I feel like I get the opportunity to see a part of society that is hopeful and wants a little bit of joy and wants to celebrate and I get to see that from a perspective from behind a suit that represents that. I just feel that people really want just a little bit of it and they make comments about that as well.

Miller:  Saying that you’re giving us a little bit of goodness in the world?

Barber:  We try to do up the room or outside where we put up lights and blow up globes and all kinds of things and it just takes people away for a few minutes or as long as they’re in line.

Miller: Leroy Barber, thanks very much.

Barber:   Thanks for having me on.

Miller:   For a national perspective on the current Santa situation, I’m joined by Susan Mesco. She’s the founder and director of the Professional Santa Claus School in Denver and the president of American Events and Promotions and Santa Visits USA, a booking company for Santas.  Susan Mesco, welcome to Think Out Loud.

Susan Mesco: Thanks Dave for inviting me.

Miller: Thanks for joining us. What are you seeing in the big picture in terms of Santa demand this year?

Mesco: Santa demand is off the charts. I think we all held our breath until about March and then the booking started flooding in and I call it a season of ho, ho, hope.

Miller: [Laughter] Ho ho hope.  Wait.  So you said you were holding your breath in March, but meaning as early as the very beginning of the spring, that’s when people are booking Santas.

Mesco: Well, Dave, there’s no rest. Christmas morning at 5:30 I probably have maybe 80 of my local clients that call me to book their Santa for the next year. But I think this year people really kind of held off and once the vaccine became available, people just went ah ha, COVID-19 is going to go away, we’re all going to be cured, we can take off our masks and have fun. I miss my family. I want to hug them. I want to be with them again. People are just breaking out. They just really need that human connection and Santa Claus has always been kind of a centerpiece. Here in Denver I do over 1300 events and this year I’m up around 1700 events already and turning people away and trying to squeeze people in if they call me, obviously everybody wants Santa Friday, Saturday and Sunday trying to say, hey, look, why don’t we have, you know, why don’t you fire up that outdoor, you know, fire pit and we can have a Santa and S’mores Party on a Tuesday night. So people are really finding fun ways to do that.  I’m working with an ice cream factory so after school we’ve got 15 bookings with them. The children can come in, write their letters to Santa.  See Santa on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and give him the letters, so finding very creative ways to try to fit in as many people as possible.

Miller: As we just heard from Leroy Barber, he’s seeing more demand now, not just than last year, but more than pre-pandemic. And he’s also explained that partly by the fact that there are very few black Santas or Santas of Color and there’s more and more interest for very little supply. But I’m curious if broadly that tracks with what you’ve seen, just more interesting Santas now than ever before?

Mesco: Well, let me preface this by ]saying] that in 2020 and 2021, we did our Santa Claus Schools and we did online schools and online training and courses, but there were still a lot of people who were a little hesitant to travel to be in a hotel conference setting for 5-6 days. So those past two years, even though we did Santa School, virtually those Santas didn’t go out and get to be Santa. So normally I would have 60 or more students in each class, we were down to 15 students. And then in 2020 we had, I think about 35 new Santas come in. A lot more had wanted to come, but because of COVID-19, they didn’t come in September. So I’m figuring that I’m down somewhere between 150 and 200 new infused santas because there’s a cycle as Santas get older, they lose their hearing, they don’t want to drive at night, maybe a little dementia creeping in, their knees don’t work. They can’t walk as well. The Santas retire. And then COVID-19 did take a toll on our genre of Santas obviously because they’re in that spectrum of very susceptible to COVID-19. So we had Santas who in 2020 said I was thinking of retiring in a couple years but I’m just going to turn in the suit. So I’ve had about 13 guys that have worked for me come by and hand me their suits and say give it a good home. So we’ve had retiring Santas, Santas who are taken by COVID-19, less Santas coming to Santa Claus School, more people wanting to get together with their families and have Christmas and have celebrations. So both of those are the perfect storm of making it look like there’s a shortage. Let me tell you what, Dave, there’s only one Santa and he’s still at the North Pole. Okay?

Dave: (Laughter) Okay. I hear you loud and clear but I was really struck by a line I saw in a CNN article about this recently quoting the owner of a different Santa booking agency who said that the average working Santa is in his mid sixties and weighs 248 pounds, obviously serious risk factors for COVI D-1 9 illness. How many Santas are you aware of who have died because of COVID-19?

Mesco: Well, among the guys that I work with on a regular basis out of maybe 500-600 Santas, I lost 74 Santas.

Miller: That is a breathtaking number.

Mesco: It’s heartbreaking. It really is. They didn’t just work for me. These guys have been through my school, they were dear friends for 15, 20 years. So it’s tragic. It’s tragic. But we need to keep our eyes on families that want to pass down these traditions. They want to have a pure hero come in. They want that that magic of Christmas and so–I’m not really trying to kill my guys that are still working for me– but most of them have bookings from eight o’clock in the morning, starting with preschools, elementary schools in the afternoon, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and restaurants and what not from 3 to 6 and then refashioned home visits from 7:00 till 9:00 at night and this is Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. So they asked me if I was trying to kill them [laughter] and I said no. We’re really trying to handle the volume that’s coming in with the circumstances the way they are and I have a prediction that next year it’s going to be better, worse, better, worse. So  even more bookings because more people will have kind of broken free of the “COVID-19 chains’ and feel a lot more confident about having a party for even those people who held off this year. And we developed numerous virtual pro virtual parties online parties that are interactive and a lot of fun with Santa, not just a boring Zoom with games and sing alongs and just a lot of really fun, fun, fun things.  Those people that have maintained being virtual from 2020-21, I believe that these are national companies that have offices in, you know 15, 20 places across the country that will be booking all of their Christmas parties again. So I think we’re just seeing the tip of the iceberg as far as what we call the Santa shortage only every single day, I am getting 15 to 20 guys who want to enroll in my school and I’m foreseeing having to put my school on twice as many times as normal.

Miller: Susan stay with us, I want to bring one more voice in the conversation that I have questions about your school. Barb Wright is the owner of the Oodles Toy Store in Southeast Portland.  Barb, welcome to the show.

Barb Wright: Hi, thank you.

Miller: Thanks for joining us. My understanding is you took over the Oodles Toy Store just in January of this year and your plan was to have a Santa event now this season. What was the setup going to be?

Wright: Well this setup was originally going to be during our neighborhood shopping event and then that ended up not happening, but we were going to have Santa in the store and online booking so that we could control the crowd a little bit better and basically schedule everyone out so we weren’t too crowded. And we were in the midst of working out all the details such as sitting on a stool in front of Santa. So we’re not on Santa’s lap, that sort of thing. And that was the plan.

Miller: And then what happened?

Wright: And then as we were working on our COVID-19 protocol and more questions were coming and we’re getting everyone booked up for their climate lots.  I wanted to be able to advertise that Santa was vaccinated because I assumed it and I found out that in fact he wasn’t vaccinated and had to do a quick a quick change and decided it just wasn’t worth the risk with all the kids coming through. So then we had to cancel Santa at the last minute.

Miller: Did you try to find a vaccinated Santa? Or by that point it was too late?

Wright: It was getting very close and I actually had made a public announcement and one of the other toy stores in town messaged me and asked if it was the same stance as she had and they said no. We conferred and it turned out her Santa also was unvaccinated (a different person)  and it was just getting too close to the end game and we had to just cancel.

Miller: How did folks respond when you announced you were canceling Santa?

Wright: W ell it was a disappointment but every single response was positive whether  just thank you for doing that or we’re disappointed, but I’m glad that you made the call that way. So everyone was relieved that that was a decision made.

Miller:   Barb Wright, thanks very much for joining us.

Wright: Thank you.

Miller: So Susan, let’s go back to you. How do you deal with Santas and vaccinations?

Wright: All of my Santas have been vaccinated except one and he’s an ice skating Santa so he’s out on an ice rink six days a week. He’s outside wearing his mask. We set up Santa-tizing stations at every one of our events that have disposable masks and tissues and face wipes and hand sanitizer. And people are very thankful. All of our Santas are in the bubble, the hard plastic bubble masks so that you can see their face and see their smiles. It doesn’t make for the best picture but at least the children can see that Santa is smiling at them. But all the Santas that I’m working with except that one are all vaccinated, have had all of their shots and their boosters. So I’m feeling pretty confident, my Santas have invested about $300- $400 in gloves. My Santas changed their gloves every 20 minutes. They wear a suit twice and then it gets dry cleaned. So the dry cleaning bills this year are excruciating.

Miller: Susan the clock is ticking down. And I have to ask you about Santa School that you run because I couldn’t believe how intense this is–180 hours of online instruction. It seems like a doctoral level class in Santa Studies. What are your Santa’s learning in 180 hours before a five day in-person conference?

Wright: Well, we talked to them about the suits that they want to wear and how they customize that.We work with them on working with autistic children. And we start their studies in sign language. They study child development so they know that a three year old needs something different than an eight year old needs so that Santas’ conversations can be different. We work with them on getting their makeup kit together because today’s cameras and virtual Zoom sessions and what not get put up on 270 inch screens on screen TVs. So we want to make sure that they look like storybook Santas. We work with them before they get there by bleaching their beards and taking care of their hair conditioning. It is just endless the amount of things that we do. We have 30 different ways to work with hesitant children. So it’s very comprehensive. It is the most intensive Santa Claus School in the country, probably the world.

Miller:   Your current schedule seems really grueling. It seems like you’re fitting six months of work into a month and a half. We have just 40 seconds left, but what are you going to do on December 26?

Barber:  Payroll.

Miller: (Laughter) You’re still working, okay.

Barber: My next day off will be like February 8th which is my birthday and everything needs to be blue, nothing can be red or white. Nothing.

Miller: That’s the rule. Okay, you’re done with red and white by then. Susan Mesco, it was a real wild ride talking to you. Thank you.

Barber: Thank you. Dave, Merry Christmas

Miller:  To you, too.

Contact “Think Out Loud®”

If you’d like to comment on any of the topics in this show, or suggest a topic of your own, please get in touch with us on Facebook or Twitter , send an email to [email protected] , or you can leave a voicemail for us at 503-293-1983. The call-in phone number during the noon hour is 888-665-5865.

OPB’s First Look newsletter

Streaming Now

Santa Visits Across the United States

Posted: November 24, 2023 | Last updated: March 22, 2024

More for You

The best Western show in TV history isn't 'Gunsmoke' or 'Bonanza,' according to data. Check out the top 50.

13 Things You Need to Order from the McDonald’s Secret Menu

Ghosts of the USA: The Most Haunted Places in America

Trump defends Johnson, rips prosecution in post-court radio interview

Taylor Swift just dropped her newest video, ‘Fortnight,’ with Post Malone

USC protests break out after anti-Israel valedictorian's commencement speech cancelled over safety concerns

29 common human foods you may not realize are poisonous to your dog

NATO Ally 'Ready' to Station Nuclear Weapons on Its Territory

Homeowner warned against using common method to eliminate stubborn yard weeds: 'It's extremely toxic'

Trump's $175 million bond in New York civil fraud judgment case is settled with cash promise

ACP Ends in One Week: Affordable Internet Alternatives at AT&T, Verizon and More

The Only Ingredients Bobby Flay Uses To Season His Burgers

Experts Say These Are The 5 Worst Foods For Your Cholesterol

James Bond Trailer Featuring Henry Cavill Receives 2.3M Views Despite Being an AI Fake | THR News Video

3 Reasons Not to Open a CD Right Now, Even With Rates at 5.30%

How A U.S. Fighter Jet Shot Itself Out Of The Sky

Trump co-defendant in classified documents case was told he’d be pardoned in a second term, notes in FBI interview say

30 food items that you might not know are banned in America

20 facts you might not know about 'The Little Mermaid'

Cars are piling up at dealerships, and that means discounts—but not for every brand

Here's what Santa visits may look like amid COVID-19

The Santa-visit tradition that began 160 years ago won't happen at New York's iconic Macy's Santaland this year.

They won't take place at the Chicago or San Francisco stores either.

Though these holiday traditions have been interrupted by COVID-19, there are plenty of places still offering in-person Santa visits. But, like most things in 2020, the visits won't look quite like years past.

At Bass Pro Shops and its subsidiary Cabela’s, Santa's Wonderland “Contactless Claus” program uses a clear shield between Santa and the children, and features Santa and elves in masks, temperature checks and social distancing. A "Santa-tary Squad" cleans everything between each visit with Santa.

MORE: Santa's making virtual visits to kids in quarantine

The program runs from Nov. 7 to Dec. 24 at all locations. Advance reservations are required. Each visit comes with a free photo and a free digital download.

At Brookfield's 130-plus mall locations, in-person visits are happening -- with changes.

MORE: Experts predict holiday shipping crunch amid pandemic: Here's what you need to know

A spokesperson told "Good Morning America" that Brookfield has redesigned the sets to make Santa visits and photos possible in a COVID world.

The designs vary from mall to mall -- one visitor might see Santa in a snow globe, while another mall may have him inside a socially distanced photo frame.

All sets are equipped with health and safety features, including social distancing, hand-sanitizing stations and "intense" cleanings. Reservations are recommended.

For those who would prefer a virtual Santa visit, Brookfield malls offers those, too. It's partnered with Jingle Ring for live virtual visits. The visit can be joined from multiple devices, bringing grandparents, aunts and uncles, and other loved ones together for the experience. Reservations can be made at www.JingleRing.com.

Personalized virtual visits can also come from self-employed Santas. While one Baltimore-area Santa was making free visits to kids in quarantine , he's now available for the appropriate price of $12.25.

Related Topics

Up next in family—.

Mom speaks out after accidentally inviting 487 guests to daughter's birthday party

Melissa Joan Hart shares son's prom date's bewitching name

Bruce Willis is a dad of 5: What to know about his kids

John Travolta walks red carpet with daughter Ella: What to know about his kids

Shop editors picks, sponsored content by taboola.