Where families can find Santa this holiday season
From parade floats to pancake breakfasts, professional pics and more, we know where kids can find Santa this Christmas around Champaign-Urbana
Santa Claus is coming to Champaign-Urbana! We have rounded up a list of all the local places where your child can see him and ensure their spot on the nice list. So gather your cameras and have your children check their wish list before he makes his trip back to the North Pole.
Now, let’s find Santa!
Whether Santa is arriving by fire truck, hanging out in a mall, or making a day of it in a cozy local library, we’ve got the scoop on where to get your Santa pics taken.
First things first: we know Santa is EVERYWHERE this holiday season. Be sure to look at our calendar for many events such as Santa breakfasts, parades, and other places where Santa might show up. Always have your camera (or smartphone) charged and ready! If you are specifically looking for meals with Santa, head over here (but know that these events usually fill up).
This list contains events where we are pretty sure Santa will be camera-ready and waiting for your little elves. We look for FREE or low-cost events, some of which require advance registration. Some of the free events may request an optional donation. Some may take photos, but most are BYOC (a.k.a. bring your own camera).
Know of a Santa photo op not on our list? Please submit it here.
No EventsVisit Santa at Market Place Shopping Center – Reservations Recommended
Santa will be at Market Place Shopping Center Dec. 1-24, 2022. Get more info and reserve a time by clicking here. Pet times are Dec. 5, 4-7 p.m.
Visit Santa at Lincoln Square
Visit Santa at Lincoln Square! In the past, you could do photos on your own with a donation or purchase an available package. Saturdays: Nov. 26, Dec. 3, 10 and 17, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Zoom with Santa (Must Register By Dec. 1)
The Champaign Park District has a Zoom channel direct to the big guy himself. You need to register ahead of time (deadline Dec. 1) to participate; registration forms available at any Champaign Park District facility or online. Times are available on Dec. 6, 13 and 20.
Looking for more? Subscribe to our Home for the Holidays Newsletter. Want more ideas for holiday (or everyday) fun? Check out our Events Calendar.
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