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.
Thanks to Curtis Orchard for presenting this list. Make lasting memories at Curtis Orchard’s Cookies with Santa. Share your wishlist with Santa, visit with Mrs. Claus, decorate sugar cookies with all the toppings, make Christmas cards (to donate to nursing home residents), choose your own keepsake ornament and have it personalized, and enjoy professional photography by Christopher Fuller (extra charge). Reservations are required to minimize crowds.
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, be aware those events usually fill very quickly.
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.
Monday, December 2, 2024
Pet Photos with Santa | Reservations Recommended
Marketplace Mall
Time: 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Reserve a time to have your family's photo taken with Santa at the Marketplace Mall in Champaign... including furry family members! Head to the Marketplace Mall website to get your time now. Make sure to select a time on Dec. 1, 3, 8 or 9 for pet photos between 4…
Tuesday, December 3, 2024
Pet Photos with Santa | Reservations Recommended
Marketplace Mall
Time: 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Reserve a time to have your family's photo taken with Santa at the Marketplace Mall in Champaign... including furry family members! Head to the Marketplace Mall website to get your time now. Make sure to select a time on Dec. 1, 3, 8 or 9 for pet photos between 4…
Meet Santa Claus at The Virginia Theatre
Virginia Theatre
Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Santa Claus is coming to town! The Champaign Center Partnership and the Champaign Park District are excited to again welcome jolly old St. Nick to the Virginia Theatre. Sign up for you and your family to visit with Santa in the theatre’s beautifully-decorated Mezzanine Lobby. SIGN UP HERE Santa will…
Wednesday, December 4, 2024
Community Christmas Party
Synergy HomeCare
Time: 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Come out for this completely FREE event. They will have professional pictures with Santa taken by Chanelle Stokes Photography, a Christmas bubble house, kids crafts, and a hot cocoa bar. Sign up at http://bit.ly/4gZ0y4L to be guaranteed a photo session. Walk ins for photos are VERY welcome but will be…
Downtown Decatur Christmas Walk
Central Park
Time: 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Bring the family to downtown Decatur for a festive evening of shopping and merrymaking. - Shop the downtown stores to find that perfect gift. - Dine at a downtown restaurant. - Ride the free trolley throughout downtown. - Listen to festive music at several locations. - Visit Santa Claus in…
Pictures with Santa
Deca Improvements
Time: 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Free pictures with Santa at Deca Improvements in Champaign. All are welcome.
Friday, December 6, 2024
Tuscola Christmastown
Tuscola Community Building
Time: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Pictures with Santa before the lighted Christmas parade at 6pm with free carriage rides after.
A Christmas Carol Downtown Event
Downtown Sullivan
Time: 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Christmas Traditions downtown Sullivan! Visits with Santa, kids activities, food trucks, shopping carriage rides and more. Lights On Parade starts at 6pm.
Christmas Parade & Drone Show
Downtown Mattoon
Time: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
🎄✨ A First for Mattoon: Christmas Drone Show! ✨🎄 This year, Celebrate Downtown Mattoon's Celebrate Christmas Parade is bringing something truly magical to their holiday tradition! For the first time ever, they're hosting a Christmas Drone Show! They're thrilled to bring a special performance at the very end of the…
German Christmas Market
Edgewood Farm
Time: 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
3 Day Christmas Market including craft vendors, holiday gifts, live music, German food, kids activities, photo scenes, Santa & Mrs Claus, a live nativity and more! Follow the event on Facebook.
Mahomet Village Christmas
Downtown Mahomet
Time: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Santa arrives downtown, Santa meet & greet, Madrigal performances, food trucks and more!
Santa at the Library
Tolono Public Library
Time: 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Santa is coming to the Tolono Public Library to meet with all the children and to take photos!
Santa Night at the Farm
No Bad Days Farm
Time: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Santa Night at No Bad Days farm in Shelbyville will be Friday evening, Dec. 6. Come see Santa & Mrs. Claus, ice carving, and some great local vendors and warm up by the fire with some hot chocolate. Learn more about No Bad Days Farm on their website, Facebook, or Instagram.…
Santa's Station Opening Day
Uptown Station
Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stop in and see Santa this holiday season in Uptown Normal! Santa’s Station is located in the Mark R. Peterson Plaza, between Uptown Station and the Children’s Discovery Museum. While you wait your turn to see Santa, enjoy live music and festivities inside Uptown Station. Visits to Santa’s Station are free, but cash donations are…
Tuscola Christmastown Parade
Tuscola Community Building
Time: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Tuscola's First Annual Lighted Christmas Parade will take place on Friday, December 6 at 6 p.m. Lineup at 5:30 p.m. at Ervin Park. More info here.
Saturday, December 7, 2024
Holly Jolly Kids' Christmas
St. Joseph-Stanton Fire Protection District
Time: 7:00 am - 11:00 am
Pancake breakfast, Santa on a firetruck and The Grinch!
Breakfast with Santa | Paxton Hardee's
Hardee’s
Time: 8:00 am - 10:30 am
Head to Hardee's in Paxton for Breakfast with Santa! Free sausage biscuit for kids 12 and under with any purchase. Kids can enjoy breakfast with Santa, take a photo with him and color Christmas pages. Special guests include: Mrs. Claus and Elf
Donuts with Santa in Mahomet | Registration Deadline 11/29
Mahomet-Seymour High School
Time: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
🎅Get ready to jingle all the way🎅 ✨Head to the Mahomet-Seymour High School for a morning bursting with magic and holiday spirit. The one and only Santa Claus is on his way, with a bag of donuts and a sleigh full of cheer to share with all you good girls…
Tuscola Christmastown
Tuscola Community Building
Time: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Santa Drive Thru, Saturday 8-11 at the Douglas County Museum. Ornament making and Cookie decorating happening in the afternoon.
Breakfast With Santa | Registration Deadline 12/2
Mansfield United Methodist Church
Time: 9:00 am
Come eat breakfast with Santa Claus.
Christmas in Homer
Homer Village Hall
Time: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
Homer's annual Christmas event including a cookie walk, loads of venders, food trucks and a special visit from Santa!
Cookies with Santa | Registration Required
Dooley Park
Time: 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
Enjoy milk and cookies with Santa and a chance to get your photo with him too.
Cookies with Santa at Curtis Orchard
Curtis Orchard
Time: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Make lasting memories at the Cookies with Santa event! The first Saturday in December, you can look forward to the following: Personalized keepsake ornament Meeting Santa and Mrs. Claus Professional photographs (additional fee) Cookie decorating (and eating) Letter to Santa printable $14 each child – (under 12 months – free)
Crisis Nursery's Children's Holiday Shop
Orpheum Theater
Time: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
The Holiday Shop is designed to allow children to shop for gifts for their families and friends. Volunteers assist children - toddlers through 12 years of age, to buy quality items priced under $10. There’s something for everyone on their list!
Santa at Lincoln Square Mall
Lincoln Square Mall
Time: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Come visit Santa! Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Nov. 30, Dec. 7, Dec. 14 & Dec. 21
Santa Breakfast at First United Methodist Church
First United Methodist Church
Time: 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Join First United Methodist Church for a special visit from Santa, including breakfast! There will also be Christmas crafts for children to make. This is a FREE event but you should call the church at 217-356-9078 if you would like to attend.
Santa Breakfast at First United Methodist Church Champaign | Registration Deadline 12/2
First United Methodist Church of Champaign
Time: 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Head to First United Methodist for breakfast and a special visit from Santa! Free event but you should call the church to let them know you are coming.
Rector Team - Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus
TM Horse Haven
Time: 9:30 am - 11:30 am
Save the Date! The Rector Team annual Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus event is just around the corner! Mark your calendars and get ready for a magical morning filled with holiday cheer. Date: Saturday, December 7th, 2024 Time: 9:30 - 11:30 AM Location: TM Horse Haven, 917 County Rd…
Downtown Effingham Hometown Christmas
Downtown Effingham
Time: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
Lighted Christmas parade, live reindeer, visit with Santa, Carriage rides, cookie decorating, Tractor Train Rides and so much more!
Festival of Trees and Holiday Market
I Hotel and Conference Center
Time: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
The 29th Annual Festival of Trees will be held at this year's Holiday Market. The Junior League of Champaign Urbana has joined forces with Illini Radio Group to bring you the beloved Festival of Trees while you shop local businesses. Event Highlights: **Holiday Market: ** Shop from over 50 local…
German Christmas Market
Edgewood Farm
Time: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
3 Day Christmas Market including craft vendors, holiday gifts, live music, German food, kids activities, photo scenes, Santa & Mrs Claus, a live nativity and more! Follow the event on Facebook.
Meet & Greet with Santa & Mrs. Claus
4EverGreen Tree Company
Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Meet & Greet with Santa & Mrs. Claus to celebrate the 2024 Season 10am to 12pm on Saturday, 12/7 Come to the Big Red Shed at 309 W. Chestnut (Route 10) in Bondville, just west of Champaign, to pick out your fresh-cut Christmas tree. Visit their facebook page for all the…
State Street Mall Christmas Open House
State Street Mall
Time: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Deck the halls with local Christmas shopping! Pictures and ice cream with Santa from 2-4pm Rev up your engines at Toyce & Sheila Boiler's Antique Car Museum Get ready to groove with some jamming piano players Sip and savor with Carolyn & Steve's delightful tastings Shopping local with: Simply Pat's…
Monticello Christmas Parade
Monticello Courthouse Square Historic District
Time: 11:30 am
The parade is in Downtown Monticello on December 7, 2024 stepping off at 11:30 AM. You are invited to participate and help make this a fun event for the entire community. The 2024 parade theme is: "CHRISTMAS IN CANDYLAND” The parade route will be the same as last year, north…
Cookies with Santa
Paxton ERS Station
Time: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Come enjoy cookies and hot cocoa with Santa, get your picture taken and receive a free toy. Held at the Paxton ERS Station.
Fisher Holiday Celebration
Fisher Community Building
Time: 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Pictures with Santa + Open House & Kids Crafts WHEN: Saturday, December 7 from 2-5pm WHERE: Fisher Community Building Pictures with Santa 2-4pm Open House & Kids Crafts 3-5pm Pictures are FREE in exchange for a donation (canned or paper goods) for the Fisher Area Food Pantry The Holiday Parade…
Weldon Village Christmas
Weldon Village Hall
Time: 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Head to Weldon for their Annual Weldon Village Christmas!! They will kick off the holiday season with a LIGHTED Christmas Parade!
Rantoul Christmas Parade
Downtown
Time: 5:00 pm
Rantoul kicks off the Christmas season with a parade! This fun event is hosted by the Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce!
Arthur Country Lighted Christmas Parade
Downtown Arthur
Time: 5:30 pm
An evening Lighted Christmas parade brings Santa to Downtown Arthur at 5:30 p.m.
Arcola's Santa Parade
Downtown Arcola
Time: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Arcola's Annual Lighted Christmas Parade! The parade will start out heading west downtown Main St, starting at the Library. Expect many lighted displays and Santa and Mrs. Claus will be here too! After the parade meet Santa in the Arcola Center! Photo opportunities available and other family activities planned! Do…
Mansfield Winterfest Parade, Tree Lighting & Festivities
Downtown Mansfield
Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Winterfest Tree lighting & Festivities Saturday, December 7th, 9am-8pm Vendors 9am-1pm Gingerbread Wars 2pm Christmas Movie Trivia 4pm Lighted Parade 6pm Tree Lighting and Festivities 6:30-8pm Downtown Mansfield, IL Check out their Facebook page for more information. Meet Santa Kid's Scavenger Hunt Chili Supper Barrel Train Rides and more! Directly…
Village of Tilton Christmas "Night of Lights" Parade
Tilton Fire Station
Time: 6:00 pm
Welcome Santa to Tilton!
Sunday, December 8, 2024
Cookies with Santa | Registration Required
Dooley Park
Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Enjoy milk and cookies with Santa and a chance to get your photo with him too.
German Christmas Market
Edgewood Farm
Time: 2:00 pm - 8:00 pm
3 Day Christmas Market including craft vendors, holiday gifts, live music, German food, kids activities, photo scenes, Santa & Mrs Claus, a live nativity and more! Follow the event on Facebook.
Pet Photos with Santa | Reservations Recommended
Marketplace Mall
Time: 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Reserve a time to have your family's photo taken with Santa at the Marketplace Mall in Champaign... including furry family members! Head to the Marketplace Mall website to get your time now. Make sure to select a time on Dec. 1, 3, 8 or 9 for pet photos between 4…
Monday, December 9, 2024
Pet Photos with Santa | Reservations Recommended
Marketplace Mall
Time: 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Reserve a time to have your family's photo taken with Santa at the Marketplace Mall in Champaign... including furry family members! Head to the Marketplace Mall website to get your time now. Make sure to select a time on Dec. 1, 3, 8 or 9 for pet photos between 4…
Tuesday, December 10, 2024
Meet Santa Claus at The Virginia Theatre
Virginia Theatre
Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Santa Claus is coming to town! The Champaign Center Partnership and the Champaign Park District are excited to again welcome jolly old St. Nick to the Virginia Theatre. Sign up for you and your family to visit with Santa in the theatre’s beautifully-decorated Mezzanine Lobby. SIGN UP HERE Santa will…
Thursday, December 12, 2024
Santa at Whisk
Whisk Coffee and Wine Bar
Time: 6:00 pm
Santa’s Coming to WHISK! Come out for a night of holiday cheer with the big man himself! Grab your friends, put on your favorite holiday sweaters, and get ready for a jolly good time at WHISK Coffee and Wine Bar!! Date: December 12 Time: Starting at 6pm Where: 1704 Patton…
Friday, December 13, 2024
Santa's House
Farmer City
Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Come visit Santa in downtown Farmer City!
Saturday, December 14, 2024
Breakfast with Santa
Crossroads Church – Bement
Time: 8:00 am - 9:45 am
Bring your little ones to enjoy a yummy breakfast of sausage links, pancakes, fresh fruit, and a drink. Have a meet & greet with Santa and get your pics taken with the one and only ahead of the crowd.
Breakfast with Santa - Paxton Park District
Paxton Park District
Time: 8:00 am - 10:00 am
Santa Claus is coming to town...it’s the Paxton Park District’s annual Breakfast with Santa. Free breakfast includes: Pancakes, sausage, eggs, biscuits & gravy Donations being collected for Paxton Food Pantry. Accepted donations: Peanut butter, jelly, hamburger helper, boxed meals, canned goods, toilet paper, baby wipes
Breakfast with Santa at the Moose Lodge
Moose Lodge 729
Time: 8:00 am
Head out to the Moose Lodge in Tuscola for Breakfast with Santa! Open to the public, donations accepted.
Breakfast with Santa in Rantoul | Registration Deadline 12/9
Rantoul Youth Center
Time: 8:00 am - 10:00 am
Register for free breakfast and photo op with Santa!
Breakfast with Santa at Miller Park Zoo | Tickets Required
Miller Park Zoo
Time: 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Breakfast with Santa December 14, 8:30AM and 10:00AM *This event is at the Miller Park Pavilion* Enjoy a continental-style breakfast at the Zoo! There will be a chance to meet with Santa and take pictures with him and Mrs. Claus. Enjoy an animal encounter, and an early-morning stroll through the…
Donuts with Santa
Industrial Donut
Time: 8:30 am - 10:15 am
Santa is coming to Industrial Donut again this year! He will be available for photos between 8:30 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. on Saturday, December 14. The Grinch will creep around between 10:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. This is a FREE event- DO NOT PURCHASE "TICKETS" from anyone or click links…
Breakfast with Santa at Harvest Market
Harvest Market
Time: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Santa Claus is coming to town and he’s stopping by Harvest Market!! Stop by anytime between 9am-1pm to say hello to Santa (and you might even spy some of his elves wandering around ). Enjoy a free kid’s breakfast from the Farmhouse with the purchase of an adult’s meal. The kid’s…
Photos with Santa - Santa Claus is coming to Tuscola
Howntown Grounds
Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Santa’s Coming to Town! Date: December 14th Time: 9 AM - 12 PM Location: Hometown Grounds, 123 W Sale St, Tuscola, IL Free to the Public! Bring the whole family for a festive photo with Santa, $1 off all drinks, and fun crafts for all ages. It’s the perfect way…
Santa at Lincoln Square Mall
Lincoln Square Mall
Time: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Come visit Santa! Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Nov. 30, Dec. 7, Dec. 14 & Dec. 21
St. Joe Santa 5k Run/Walk
Downtown St. Joseph
Time: 9:00 am - 10:30 am
7th Annual Santa 5k Run/Walk, Saturday, December 14th Santa’s are coming to town for the 7th year in a row! RUNNERS/WALKERS: Click here to sign up for the race.
Mistletoe Market
Lincoln Square Mall
Time: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
You’re invited! The Mistletoe Market is back again in its 8th year to bring a unique shopping event to Champaign-Urbana! Since 2017, this event has become a cherished holiday tradition for the entire community with a great selection of locally made goods. This year, over 70 rotating artists and artisans…
Paw-traits with Santa, for CCHS
Serra Subaru of Champaign
Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Santa "Paws" is coming to town! Head out to Serra Subaru in Savoy, IL for a fun photo session with Santa and your furry family members on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 10 am - 1 pm! You can get an adorable holiday portrait for a suggested donation of $20. Making…
Sensory Friendly Santa Event | Registration Deadline 12/1
Tuscola Community Building
Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
To sign up for the Sensory Friendly Santa Event Saturday December 14th, please click here. Head to the Tuscola Community Building for fun, activities and a visit with Santa (with an OPTION to purchase a professional photo) Please RSVP by 12/1.
Santa is Coming
Coldwell Banker
Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
This holiday season, join this group for a festive afternoon at Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group in Champaign, IL! Enjoy a visit with Santa, holiday crafts, treats, and fun activities on Saturday, December 14th, from 1:00PM - 4:00PM. Capture the Magic: Take memorable holiday photos with Santa in a warm…
Photos with Santa
Ryan Dallas Real Estate
Time: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Santa is coming to town and making a special visit to the Ryan Dallas Real Estate office in Champaign. Join them for an afternoon of holiday fun and goodies, and get a free picture with Santa!
Santa's Secret Star | Sensory Friendly
William M. Staerkel Planetarium at Parkland College
Time: 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
The Staerkel Planetarium offers matinée shows with sensory-friendly settings on selected Saturdays. Sensory-friendly shows have "lights up, sound down" settings and a relaxed atmosphere where patrons can come, go, and move around as needed. Sensory-friendly shows are great for guests with autism spectrum disorder, sensory sensitivities, or young children. All are welcome,…
Pathway of Lights - Santa Night
Aikman Wildlife Adventure
Time: 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Come out for the annual Pathway of Lights event! Every Saturday (Nov. 2 -Jan. 4) from 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. *Drive-Thru gates close at 7:30* Pathway of Lights offers: Lighted walk-thru display Lighted wagon rides Museum of prehistoric life Nativity billboard story in Drive-Thru Hot food+drinks Red Barn Tours…
Sunday, December 15, 2024
Breakfast with Santa
Miller Farms Barn
Time: 8:30 am - 12:00 pm
Santa is coming to town early and making a stop at Miller Farms Barn! Enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet, holiday make and take craft station, photo op with Santa, and family mini sessions available with reservation. 8:30 - 10 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. - noon time slots available. Adults are…
Sensory Friendly Breakfast with Santa | Tickets Required
The City Center
Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Family Ticket for Sensory Friendly Breakfast with Santa. They will have a full breakfast with Pancakes, Sausage, Fruit, Bagels, Donuts, Danish, OJ, Milk and Coffee. There will be crafts for the kids, a sensory station set up by Total Spectrum. Santa will make a visit and give the kids a…
Sensory Hour Sweets with Santa | Registration Opens 10/1
Allerton Park and Retreat Center
Time: 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
At Sweets with Santa, children will have the chance to chat and get their picture with Santa, read a story with Mrs. Claus, create their own crafts, and nibble on festive treats. Buy tickets ahead of time as it tends to sell out!
Sweets with Santa | Tickets Required | Registration Opens 10/1
Allerton Park and Retreat Center
Time: 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
At Sweets with Santa, children will have the chance to chat and get their picture with Santa, read a story with Mrs. Claus, create their own crafts, and nibble on festive treats. Buy tickets ahead of time as it tends to sell out!
Monday, December 16, 2024
Santa at Briks
Briks Pizzeria
Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Santa is coming to Briks in Mahomet!
Tuesday, December 17, 2024
Meet Santa Claus at The Virginia Theatre
Virginia Theatre
Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Santa Claus is coming to town! The Champaign Center Partnership and the Champaign Park District are excited to again welcome jolly old St. Nick to the Virginia Theatre. Sign up for you and your family to visit with Santa in the theatre’s beautifully-decorated Mezzanine Lobby. SIGN UP HERE Santa will…
Thursday, December 19, 2024
Frosty's Holiday Wonderland
Douglass Community Center
Time: 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Get ready for a magical holiday experience! Meet Santa, craft your own festive gifts, and enjoy holiday games that bring the season to life. Special gift giveaways and a complimentary gift-wrapping station will add a personal touch to your holiday treasures. Gather your family and friends for a night filled…
Saturday, December 21, 2024
Santa at Lincoln Square Mall
Lincoln Square Mall
Time: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Come visit Santa! Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Nov. 30, Dec. 7, Dec. 14 & Dec. 21
Pathway of Lights - Santa Night
Aikman Wildlife Adventure
Time: 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Come out for the annual Pathway of Lights event! Every Saturday (Nov. 2 -Jan. 4) from 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. *Drive-Thru gates close at 7:30* Pathway of Lights offers: Lighted walk-thru display Lighted wagon rides Museum of prehistoric life Nativity billboard story in Drive-Thru Hot food+drinks Red Barn Tours…
Visit Santa at Market Place Shopping Center — Reservations Recommended
Visit Santa at Market Place Shopping Center and get ready for the holiday season; 15-minute slots available beginning Nov, 29. Reserve yours online now. Pet photos happen on select Mondays and Tuesdays.
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. 30, Dec. 7, 14, and 21 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Visit Santa at Festival of Trees
Looking for meals with Santa?
Make sure you read the details for each event as almost all require pre-registration to secure your spot and they WILL fill up in advance. What will we include on this list? Any event a short drive from Champaign-Urbana that includes 1) Santa and 2) food. This may be donuts, peanut butter & jelly or a full-out fancy holiday meal.
Saturday, December 7, 2024
Breakfast with Santa | Paxton Hardee's
Location: Hardee’s, Paxon
Time: 8:00 am - 10:30 am
Breakfast with Santa in Downtown Arthur
Location: Yoder’s Kitchen, Arthur
Time: 8:00 am - 10:00 am
Donuts with Santa in Mahomet | Registration Deadline 11/29
Location: Mahomet-Seymour High School, Mahomet
Time: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Breakfast With Santa | Registration Deadline 12/2
Location: Mansfield United Methodist Church, Mansfield
Time: 9:00 am
Cookies with Santa | Registration Required
Location: Dooley Park, Downs
Time: 9:00 am - 7:00 pm
Cookies with Santa at Curtis Orchard
Location: Curtis Orchard, Champaign
Time: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Santa Breakfast at First United Methodist Church Champaign | Registration Deadline 12/2
Location: First United Methodist Church of Champaign, Champaign
Time: 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Sunday, December 8, 2024
Cookies with Santa | Registration Required
Location: Dooley Park, Downs
Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Saturday, December 14, 2024
Breakfast with Santa
Location: Crossroads Church – Bement, Bement
Time: 8:00 am - 9:45 am
Breakfast with Santa - Paxton Park District
Location: Paxton Park District, Paxton
Time: 8:00 am - 10:00 am
Breakfast with Santa at the Moose Lodge
Location: Moose Lodge 729, Tuscola
Time: 8:00 am
Breakfast with Santa at Miller Park Zoo | Tickets Required
Location: Miller Park Zoo, Bloomington
Time: 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Donuts with Santa
Location: Industrial Donut, Savoy
Time: 8:30 am - 10:15 am
Breakfast with Santa at Harvest Market
Location: Harvest Market, Champaign
Time: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Sunday, December 15, 2024
Breakfast with Santa
Location: Miller Farms Barn, Gifford
Time: 8:30 am - 12:00 pm
Sensory Friendly Breakfast with Santa | Tickets Required
Location: The City Center, Champaign
Time: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Sensory Hour Sweets with Santa | Registration Opens 10/1
Location: Allerton Park and Retreat Center, Monticello
Time: 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Sweets with Santa | Tickets Required | Registration Opens 10/1
Location: Allerton Park and Retreat Center, Monticello
Time: 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Looking for more? Subscribe to our Holiday Newsletter. Want more ideas for holiday (or everyday) fun? Check out our Event Calendar.
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