Get ready for the most magical Christmas yet! Santa Claus is coming to town. Mark your calendars. We are gathering his itinerary, packed with magical holiday events and cozy spots to celebrate Christmas 2026.
Did we miss a stop on the big guy’s schedule? Leave us a comment to share with the community.
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WHERE CAN I FIND SANTA CLAUS TODAY IN THE TWIN CITIES?
Here is where you can see Santa Claus today:
 2026 TWIN CITIES SANTA CLAUS EVENTS
Santa Claus will be making more live appearances in the Twin Cities this year. Before Santa’s sleigh lands on your roof, you can bring your wish lists to these locations:Â
MINNEAPOLIS & SAINT PAUL SANTA EVENTS
Santa Claus is all over Minneapolis and Saint Paul! Santa events include an annual holiday play at Bachman’s, a couple special holiday trolley rides, festival appearances and even a magical Christmastime sleigh experience in the city. Unique St. Paul experiences include the chance to meet Santa on the rails this holiday season: on the North Pole Express at Union Depot, at Santa’s Train Shop at Jackson Street Roundhouse and at the Twin City Model Railroad Museum. All aboard!
Santa & Albert's Holiday Play (FREE)
Date(s): 11/21/2026 - 12/20/2026 SEE TIMESLocation: Bachman’s Garden Center – Lyndale, 6010 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN, 55419
Bachman’s annual Holiday Play starring Santa and Albert the Elf is about 20 minutes in length and perfect for all ages. Bonus – there’s a chance to sing Christmas carols and meet Santa after most shows. Performed 3-4 times throughout the day between 10am-3pm. Weekends only, November 21-December 20, 2026.
Bachman's Holiday Open House (FREE)
Date(s): 11/21/2026 9:30 am - 2:30 pmLocation: Bachman’s Garden Center – Lyndale, 6010 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN, 55419
A longtime Bachman’s tradition, the Lyndale Avenue location hosts a holiday open house each year the weekend before Thanksgiving. Santa and his elf sidekick, Albert, arrive – this year, in a vintage fire truck – and present the first of many renditions of this year’s holiday play. Plus, there will be Christmas music and carols, live reindeer to meet, free cookies and holiday crafts. Play will be performed at 10 & 11:30am, 1 & 2:30pm.
Santa at St Paul European Christmas Market
Date(s): 11/27/2026 - 12/20/2026 SEE TIMESLocation: Union Depot, 214 4th Street East, St Paul, MN, 55101
Santa and his reindeer will visit Union Depot’s European Market daily beginning November 27th. Stop by during scheduled hours for a FREE to Visit.
- Best day(s) to visit: December 5, 2026 Union Depot’s Tree Lighting and Movie Night. Come early for Santa and stick around for the festivities!
Holly Trolley
Date(s): 11/28/2026 - 12/06/2026 12:00 pm - 3:30 pmLocation: Minnesota Streetcar Museum – Como Harriet Streetcar Line, 2330 W 42nd Street, Minneapolis, MN, 55410
Take a trolley ride with Santa and toast marshmallows over a fire. Collecting for Toys for Tots. Two weekends: Sat & Sun, November 28-29 and December 5-6, 2026, 12-3:30pm. $5/rider.
North Pole Express
Date(s): 12/04/2026 - 12/13/2026 SEE TIMESLocation: Union Depot, 214 4th Street East, St Paul, MN, 55101
A magical holiday experience for any age, guests travel in vintage railcars with Santa through hundreds of luminaries. Hop off the train to roast marshmallows on a cozy campfire. December 4-6 & December 10-13, 2026. Approximately $28-$39.50/rider (kids 2 and under FREE). Sells out quickly, get on their email list for updates. Tickets available beginning August 1, 2026.Â
Santa's Train Shop & Caboose Rides
Date(s): 12/05/2026 - 12/20/2026 SEE TIMESLocation: Jackson Street Roundhouse, 193 Pennsylvania Ave E, Saint Paul, MN , 55130
The Jackson Street Roundhouse is magically transformed into Santa’s Train Shop with caboose rides, North Pole storytime, treats, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and lots of museum fun. Get your tickets at the link. Weekends, December 5-20, 2026. Register for an entrance time: 10:30am-4pm. Cost is $12.84-$21.40/pp (Family 4-Pack $58.85).
Merry Market
Date(s): 12/05/2026 - 12/20/2026 10:00 am - 4:00 pmLocation: Minnesota State Fairgrounds, 1265 Snelling Avenue North, Saint Paul, MN, 55108
A festive, indoor holiday shopping event on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds featuring local handcrafted gifts. Santa will be at the holiday market to visit and take photos with the family. Kid-friendly fun includes MINI TRAIN RIDES, food trucks, and Christmas crafts. Admission is free, there is a small fee for some activities.
THREE WEEKENDS ONLY December 5-6, December 12-13 & December 19-20, 2026, 10am-4pm.
St Paul Grand Meander (FREE)
Date(s): 12/05/2026 11:00 am - 3:00 pmLocation: Grand Avenue, Grand Avenue, Saint Paul, MN , 55105
The holiday festival spans 20 blocks of one of St Paul’s premiere shopping districts. Find samples, specials, free trolley rides, carolers, visits with Santa and more. FREE. Drop In. All Ages.
Santa Night at Night Trains
Date(s): 12/12/2026 - 12/19/2026 3:00 pm - 7:00 pmLocation: Twin City Model Railroad Museum, 668 Transfer Rd Ste 8, St Paul, MN , 55114
The magical, glowing Night Trains at Twin City Model Railroad Museum run every Saturday night through February, but on these two nights only, visitors can meet with Santa. December 12 & 19, 2026, 3pm-7pm. $15/pp.
Sunday at the Landmark: Santa’s Workshop (FREE)
Date(s): 12/13/2026 1:00 pm - 3:00 pmLocation: Landmark Center, 75 West Fifth Street, Saint Paul, MN, 55102
Snap a free pic with Santa at his workshop in beautiful Landmark Center, then enjoy games, festive animals and gift-making. This is a free event for all ages.
Christmas Family Fun Day
Date(s): 12/19/2026 12:00 pm - 3:00 pmLocation: Midtown Global Market, 920 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN , 55407
Celebrate Christmas with a day of Family Fun at Midtown Global Market.
TWIN CITIES NORTHWEST METRO SANTA EVENTS
Featuring events in Albertville, Andover, Anoka, Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Buffalo, Champlin, Coon Rapids, Crystal, Dayton, Delano, Elk River, Golden Valley, Hanover, Maple Grove, Maple Plain, New Hope, Osseo, Otsego, Plymouth, Ramsey, Robbinsdale & St Michael.
Albertville
Albertville Christmas in the Park
Date(s): 11/29/2026 2:00 pm - 6:00 pmLocation: Albertville Central Park, 5801 Main Ave NE, Albertville, MN , 55301
The Albertville Lions invite you to attend their annual holiday tree lighting event. Santa & Mrs. Claus will be in attendance along with holiday activities like horse-drawn wagon rides, caroling, s’mores over the fire and warm beverages.
Anoka
Anoka Tree Lighting (FREE)
Date(s): 12/05/2026 3:00 pm - 6:30 pmLocation: Anoka City Hall, 2015 S 1st Avenue, Anoka, MN, 55303
Family fun at the Anoka holiday tree lighting event traditionally includes holiday music, horse-drawn trolley rides, bonfires, holiday shopping and more. Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus in the Santa Shack during the tree lighting festivities. Food vendors will be on site.
Buffalo
Buffalo Deck The Halls
Date(s): 12/05/2026 3:00 pm - 5:00 pmLocation: Sturges Park, 505 2nd Ave S, Buffalo, MN , 55313
Buffalo’s holiday tree lighting is set for 3:30pm, but come early for festivities beginning at 3pm with Santa’s arrival and continuing until 5pm. Enjoy carolers, wagon rides, live reindeer, hot chocolate and cookies at more. View the lights any evening after the lighting ceremony throughout the holiday season.
Champlin
Champlin Christmas at the Crossings
Date(s): 12/04/2026 4:00 pm - 7:00 pmLocation: Mississippi Crossings, 307 E River Pkwy, Champlin, MN, 55316
Enjoy Santa visits until 6pm, hot chocolate, cookies and s’mores during this free family event to light up the community gathering space with a 30-foot panel animated musical tree, 16-foot walk through displays, including a gift box, an ornament and snowflake light poles. Tree lighting is at 6:30pm. Free event for all ages.
Coon Rapids
Coon Rapids Tree Lighting Festival
Date(s): 12/05/2026 3:30 pm - 6:00 pmLocation: Coon Rapids Civic Center, 11155 Robinson Drive, Coon Rapids, MN, 55433
Bundle up to celebrate the lighting of Coon Rapids’ community tree. Santa sits for pictures with your kids. Enjoy singing and bonfires, hot cocoa and cookies, live music and the holiday tree lighting. Both food shelf and toy donations will be accepted. Holiday tree lighting countdown and fireworks at 5:30pm. Free event for all ages.
Crystal
Crystal Winterfest & Light Up Crystal
Date(s): 12/05/2026 3:00 pm - 5:00 pmLocation: Crystal Community Center & Crystal Cove Aquatic Center, 4800 Douglas Drive N, Crystal, MN , 55429
Crystal Winterfest offers indoor activities followed by the Light Up Crystal ceremony outside at 5pm. Activities include music, refreshments, llama photo booth, crafting, hot dogs, treats and visits with Santa. If you are looking for an opportunity to give back as a family, stop at the card-making station to create cards for local seniors and military members. Stick around for the LIGHT UP CRYSTAL ceremony at 5pm. This is a free event for all ages.
Dayton
Holidayton Celebration
Date(s): 12/03/2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pmLocation: Briana Scurry Field, 12260 Diamond Lake Road, Dayton, MN, 55327
Join in the city of Dayton for its “Holidayton Celebration” – a holiday tree lighting along with other festivities – Santa photos, food trucks, kids games, s’mores over a bonfire, and a holiday light parade.
Delano
Delano Light the Night
Date(s): 01/31/2026 5:00 pm - 8:00 pmLocation: Delano Central Park, 650 River Street North, Delano, MN, 55328
From November 28th through January, Central Park in Delano glows with thousands of twinkling holiday lights, interactive displays, more than 100 trees decorated by the community and scenes to explore for the public to enjoy – free! There are firepits to help keep you warm, live music on select nights and free treats on Saturdays. See our complete schedule of events. Admission is free.
Santa makes an appearance on December 13. Come get your picture taken with him!
Golden Valley
Santa at Good Shepherd Christmas Market
Date(s): 12/05/2026 11:00 am - 2:00 pmLocation: Good Shepherd School, 145 Jersey Avenue South, Golden Valley, MN, 55426
Get FREE Santa photos at the Good Shepherd Christmas Market. Plus shop an indoor artist and vendor market and an outdoor Christmas tree lot (both 10am-3pm). Tree lot open Nov 27-29 & Dec 4-6, 2026.
Hanover
Victorian Caroling at the Historic Bridge
Date(s): 12/04/2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pmLocation: Hanover Bridge, Millpond Trail, Hanover, MN, 55341
Sing-along Christmas carols, llamas in their seasonal best, hot cider and cookies and photo opportunities with St Nick are all part of this annual Victorian-inspired holiday festival in Hanover. Free event, located at the historic Hanover Bridge. Â
Oak Grove
Oak Grove Christmas Tree Lighting
Date(s): 12/04/2026 5:30 pm - 8:00 pmLocation: Oak Grove City Hall Park, 19900 Nightingale St NW, Oak Grove, MN, 55011
The Oak Grove Park Commission again hosts the city’s annual Christmas tree lighting event. Expect festive food trucks, fire pits and a visit from Santa.
Osseo
Osseo MiniDazzle Celebration
Date(s): 12/04/2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pmLocation: Boerboom Park, 415 Central Ave, Osseo, MN, 55369
Start off with the Light Parade down Main Street in Osseo. Then, following pictures with Santa, fire truck rides for kids, warm up at the bonfire and watch the Osseo Christmas tree lighting. Bring Toys for Tots donations to this event. This is a free community event for all ages.
Plymouth
Santa Visits the Sensory Room (FREE)
Date(s): 12/06/2026 12:00 pm - 4:00 pmLocation: Plymouth Community Center, 14800 34th Avenue N, Plymouth, MN , 55447
Visit Santa at the Plymouth Community Center with minimized noises, smells, lights, and crowds during a 10-minute 1-on-1 session. Bring a camera to take your own photos and participate in other sensory-friendly holiday activities. 10-minute time slots available, 12-4pm. Siblings can share a timeslot. Free, but registration required.
Robbinsdale
Tri-City Santa Parade
Date(s): 12/05/2026 5:00 pm - 8:30 pmLocation: Graeser Park, 4400 Lakeland Avenue North, Robbinsdale, MN, 55422
The cities of Crystal, New Hope & Robbinsdale have again banded together this year to present the Tri-City Santa Parade through town. The parade prominently features Santa and Mrs. Claus, elves and others plus city police and firetrucks. FREE. Drop In. All Ages.
Rogers
Cabela's Santa's Wonderland (FREE)
Date(s): 11/07/2026 - 12/24/2026 10:00 am - 5:00 pmLocation: Cabela’s Rogers, 20200 Rogers Dr, Rogers, MN, 55374
It’s officially the start of the holiday season when Santa arrives at Cabela’s! Will you be there to welcome him? In Rogers, kids can pick up a free Christmas plush while supplies last, grab some seasonal treats, and marvel at the holiday tree lighting.
St Michael
St Michael WinterFest
Date(s): 12/05/2026 2:00 pm - 5:00 pmLocation: Town Center Park, 11800 Town Center Dr NE, St Michael, MN, 55376
So good they brought the festival back for a third year! Santa, Mrs. Claus & reindeer will be there and the holiday tree will shine. Lots of activities: caroling, bingo, story time, smores over the fire and hot beverages. All ages are welcome at this free event.
TWIN CITIES NORTHEAST METRO SANTA EVENTS
Featuring events in Blaine, Centerville, Columbia Heights, Columbus, Forest Lake, Fridley, Ham Lake, Hudson, Hugo, Lake Elmo, Lino Lakes, Little Canada, Mahtomedi, Maplewood, Mounds View, New Brighton, North St Paul, Oakdale, Roseville, Scandia, Shoreview, Spring Lake Park, St Anthony, St Croix Falls, Stillwater, Taylors Falls, Vadnais Heights, White Bear Lake & Wyoming.
Blaine
Blaine Winter Celebration
Date(s): 11/29/2026 4:00 pm - 6:30 pmLocation: Tom Ryan Park, 10802 Town Square Drive Northeast, Blaine, MN, 55449
Blaine kicks off the season with a holiday tree lighting ceremony, a Winter Wonderland Trail, holiday music, s’mores by a bonfire. Plus Santa will visit.
Ham Lake
Ham Lake Hometown Holiday
Date(s): 12/05/2026 3:00 pm - 6:00 pmLocation: Ham Lake Lions Park, 1220 157th Avenue Northeast, Ham Lake, MN, 55304
Ham Lake’s Hometown Holiday celebration is filled with good cheer. Gather outdoors at Lions Park for a tree lighting and holiday music, visits with Santa, alpacas to pet and ornaments to decorate and take home. Enjoy free cookies and candy canes, hot cocoa and apple cider. Free event for all ages.
Hudson
Santa & His Critters
Date(s): 12/05/2026 12:00 pm - 3:00 pmLocation: Hudson Lakefront Park, 505 First Street, Hudson, WI, 54016
Santa Claus will meet with families in lit-up Lakefront Park along with such critters as sled dogs and a petting zoo. Bring a camera if you want photos. Dress for outdoor fun. There will be family-friendly activities and treats. Cost is free, all ages welcome to meet Santa.
Hudson
Light Up Hudson
Date(s): 11/27/2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pmLocation: Hudson Lakefront Park, 505 First Street, Hudson, WI, 54016
Santa magically illuminates Lakefront Park in Hudson, Wisconsin, with thousands of lights along the St Croix River. This is one of many magical events that make up the town’s Have a Hudson Holiday celebration.
Hudson
Visit With Santa (FREE)
Date(s): 12/13/2026 12:00 pm - 3:00 pmLocation: Thorcraft Custom Kitchens, 512 2nd Street, Hudson, WI, 54016
Stop by the Thorcraft Kitchen Showroom to visit with Santa. Bring a camera for photos This event is part of Have A Hudson Holiday. Cost is free, all ages welcome to meet Santa.
Hudson
Have a Hudson Holiday
Date(s): 11/01/2026 - 12/31/2026 SEE TIMESLocation: Hudson Lakefront Park, 505 First Street, Hudson, WI, 54016
Thank you to one of our readers who alerted us that just over the border to the east you can find any number of charming Christmas experiences in Hudson, Wisconsin. From a storefront-window decorating contest in mid-November to Santa’s busy appearance schedule around town, here are the best things to do this season:
Maplewood
Santa Pictures at Maplewood Mall
Date(s): 11/20/2026 - 12/24/2026 SEE TIMESLocation: Maplewood Mall, 3001 White Bear Ave, Maplewood, MN, 55109
Make it easy-peasy and book your family’s visit with Santa at Maplewood Mall online, see our provided schedule for details. November 20-December 24, 2026. Packages for purchase start at $44.99.Â
New Brighton
Winter Park Discovery Night - Santa Edition (FREE)
Date(s): 12/01/2026 5:30 pm - 7:30 pmLocation: Freedom Park, 2121 14th Street NW, New Brighton, MN, 55112
Visit with Santa and his reindeer at this special Winter Park Discovery Night. Family fun includes a bonfire and winter park activities.
North St Paul
North St Paul Holly Jolly Night (FREE)
Date(s): 12/04/2026 6:00 pm - 9:00 pmLocation: Casey Lake Park, 2101 17th Avenue East, North St Paul, MN, 55109
Holly Jolly Night is one of North St. Paul’s most family-friendly holiday traditions. Get into the holiday spirit, make memories together, and connect with the community. Families can enjoy a cozy bonfire and carol sing-along and visits with Santa. Dress for indoor and outdoor fun. All ages are welcome to this free event.
Shoreview
Shoreview Santa Cruise
Date(s): 12/07/2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pmLocation: Shoreview Santa Cruise Route, Neighborhoods, Shoreview, MN
Sant will ride through several Shoreview neighborhoods on a fire truck collecting food and toy donations. Catch him as he cruises by – find a map of his route here.
Stillwater
Stillwater Twinkle Party & Tree Lighting
Date(s): 12/04/2026 - 12/06/2026 SEE TIMESLocation: Lowell Park, 201 Water St N, Stillwater, MN, 55082
Picturesque Stillwater’s Main Street lights up with Christmas decorations and traditional events for a month-long celebration. You can find more details about the themed weekends that make up Hometown for the Holidays to plan ahead. Here’s what’s glimmering on the horizon:
Stillwater
Stillwater Christmas at the Courthouse
Date(s): 11/21/2026 - 11/22/2026 SEE TIMESLocation: Washington County Historic Courthouse, 101 Pine Street West, Stillwater, MN, 55082
Enjoy the historic courthouse decked out for the season while you shop the Holiday Bazaar. Kids can visit with Santa both days from 12-2pm. Free event for all ages, donations appreciated to benefit the restoration of the historic building. November 21, 10am-4pm & November 22, 11am-3pm.
Taylors Falls
Taylors Falls Santa Parade
Date(s): 11/27/2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pmLocation: Taylors Falls Lighting Festival, Various locations, Taylors Falls, MN, 55084
One of the big family highlights of the annual Taylors Falls Lighting Festival is the Grand Lighting of the Village & Santa Parade on Friday. You can find Santa after the parade at Schoony’s.
White Bear Lake
White Bear Lake Winterfest
Date(s): 12/05/2026 10:00 am - 2:00 pmLocation: Downtown, White Bear Lake, White Bear Lake, MN, 55110
Everything is wintry and bright on White Bear Lake’s two Winterfest Saturdays – complete with Santa visits, horse-drawn trolley rides, carolers and ice sculptures in downtown. December 5 & 12, 2025; 10am-2pm.Â
White Bear Lake
Festival of Trees Open House with Santa (FREE)
Date(s): 12/05/2026 10:00 am - 3:00 pmLocation: White Bear Lake Armory, 2228 Fourth Street, White Bear Lake, MN, 55110
During this special Winterfest open house event, families can view the decorated trees, look for Santa, grab some cocoa and treats, enjoy holiday music and participate in family-friendly activities from 10am-3pm
Drop by the White Bear Lake Armory during public viewing hours for a self-guided tour of Christmas trees decorated by the community. Full event runs November 19-December 19, 2026.
White Bear Lake
Children's Storytime with Santa
Date(s): 12/08/2026 6:00 pm - 7:30 pmLocation: Fillebrown House, 4735 Lake Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN, 55110
Santa Claus will again be hosting an old-fashioned Christmas story time at the Fillebrown cottage. Families can snap a photo with Santa and enjoy cocoa and cookies while he reads a holiday story. Pajamas are welcome at this evening event. Cost is $10/pp. Pre-registration required.
Wyoming
Wyoming Tree Lighting Ceremony
Date(s): 12/05/2026 4:30 pm - 6:00 pmLocation: Railroad Park, 26755 Faxton Ave, Wyoming, MN, 55092
Light up the holiday tree in Wyoming – plus light displays, a Santa meet, refreshments and entertainment.Â
TWIN CITIES SOUTHWEST METRO SANTA EVENTS
Featured events in Belle Plaine, Bloomington, Chanhassen, Chaska, Eden Prairie, Edina, Excelsior, Hopkins, Jordan, Minnetonka, Mound, New Prague, Prior Lake, Richfield, Savage, Shakopee, St Louis Park, Victoria, Waconia & Wayzata.
Bloomington
SideKick Theatre's Puss in Boots
Date(s): 11/23/2026 - 12/30/2026 SEE TIMESLocation: Minnesota Masonic Heritage Center, 11411 Masonic Home Drive, Bloomington, MN, 55437
Sidekick Theatre’s Holiday musical is a re-telling of the classic fairytale about a penniless orphan and his remarkable cat. Look for special Breakfast with Santa performances. Appropriate for all ages. Tickets: $9-$19/pp.Â
Discounts: Groups of 10 or more $14/each. Field trip groups $9/each.
Read the book: Puss in Boots by Charles Perrault.
Chanhassen
Chanhassen Tree Lighting Ceremony
Date(s): 12/05/2026 5:00 pm - 6:00 pmLocation: Chanhassen Recreation Center, 2310 Coulter Blvd, Chanhassen, MN, 55317
Chanhassen’s annual holiday event includes a tree lighting ceremony followed by refreshments, bonfires, live reindeer, gingerbread house displays*, and Santa Claus. Visit all throughout the season, to enjoy the holiday lights and drop a letter in the Santa mailbox.
Chaska
Chaska Firemen's Park Tree Lighting
Date(s): 11/22/2026 6:00 pm - 7:30 pmLocation: Firemens Park, 3210 Chaska Blvd, Chaska, MN, 55318
Chaska’s annual holiday tree lighting in Firemen’s Park features bonfires, s’mores (available while supplies last), and a special visit from Santa. This is a free, all ages event.
Eden Prairie
Santa's North Pole Experience
Date(s): 11/28/2026 - 12/22/2026 SEE TIMESLocation: Cummins-Phipps-Grill House, 13600 Pioneer Trial, Eden Prairie, MN, 55347
Santa’s North Pole Experience includes photo sessions with the jolly fellow and all the trimmings: elves, a face painter, and a room with coloring activities and movies to entertain while you wait for your sitting with Santa. Schedule appointment online. Admission: $20/family. Photo packages, gift shop and face painting are extra – see link for pricing and schedule.
Eden Prairie
Santa's Arrival Party at Eden Prairie Center (FREE)
Date(s): 11/14/2026 10:15 am - 2:00 pmLocation: Eden Prairie Center, 8251 Flying Cloud Drive,, Eden Prairie, MN, 55344
Santa’s arrival party at Eden Prairie Center Court will have plenty of fun activities. Reserve your time with Santa at Eden Prairie Center at the link. Photos with Santa for purchase through December 24, 2026. Full event runs 10:15am-2pm.
- 10:15-10:45am | Mrs Claus Silly-a-long & Santa introduction
- 11am-1pm | Face painting & balloon artist
Edina
50th & France Tree Lighting Ceremony
Date(s): 11/28/2026 3:00 pm - 6:00 pmLocation: 50th & France, West 50th Street & France Avenue, Edina, MN, 55425
Along with the lighting of the 20-foot holiday tree, enjoy caroling, carriage rides and Santa Claus. Held at the 50th & France shopping and dining district. Tree lighting is at 5pm, but come early for holiday fun.
Edina
Visit Santa at Southdale
Date(s): 11/20/2026 - 12/24/2026 SEE TIMESLocation: Southdale Center, 10 Southdale Center, Edina, MN, 55435
Santa’s first day at Southdale Center is Friday November 20th and sessions continue until December 24. Walk ups welcome every day or book ahead at the link provided. See our schedule for details. Packages start at $44.99.
Prior Lake
Prior Lake Decembrrr Dazzle Tree Lighting
Date(s): 12/04/2026 5:30 pm - 8:00 pmLocation: Prior Lake Lakefront Park, 5000 Kop Parkway SE, Prior Lake, MN, 55372
Santa will snap photos with visitors in addition to the other fun winter festivities scheduled like ice-carving demonstrations and a giant bonfire with warm beverages and food for sale. The evening caps off with a fireworks show. Free! All ages welcome.
Richfield
Richfield Holiday Lights Parade
Date(s): 12/10/2026 6:30 pm - 7:00 pmLocation: Richfield City Garage, 1901 E 66th Street, Richfield, MN, 55423
Enjoy the holiday lights of Richfield on festively lit up parade floats and vehicles. Santa & Mrs. Claus will be part of the parade! The route starts at the City Garage, west on East 70th Street, then north on Lyndale past Wood Lake Nature Center.
Savage
Savage Tree Lighting Ceremony
Date(s): 12/03/2026 5:30 pm - 6:00 pmLocation: Savage City Hall, 6000 McColl Drive, Savage, MN, 55378
Savage’s annual holiday tree lighting ceremony includes hot cocoa, live music and a bonfire. This is a free community event for all ages; participating in the Toys for Tots drive is welcomed.Â
Shakopee
Shakopee Holiday Fest & Tree Lighting
Date(s): 12/05/2026 2:00 pm - 6:00 pmLocation: Downtown Shakopee, 1st Avenue & Lewis Street, Shakopee, MN, 55379
Shakopee’s Holiday Fest is aglow with a parade, photos with Santa Claus, and a tree lighting. The parade begins at 5pm, followed by lighting ceremony and fireworks in Huber Park.
Victoria
Light Up Victoria
Date(s): 12/03/2026 6:00 pm - 7:30 pmLocation: Victoria Lions Park, 1505 82nd Street, Victoria, MN, 55386
Victoria’s Lion’s Park lights up at 6pm followed by festive winter activities including music, photos with Santa, treats, beverages and marshmallow roasting. This is a free family event and all ages are welcome to attend.
Waconia
Waconia Tree Lighting In the Park
Date(s): 11/27/2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pmLocation: City Square Park, 51 Pine Street, Waconia, MN , 55387
Santa welcomes the holiday season in Waconia with a tree lighting event at the park gazebo – plus hot cocoa and caroling. This is a free event, collecting new, unopened toys for the Waconia Toy Drive.
Watertown
Watertown Santa-Stravaganza & Tree Lighting Ceremony
Date(s): 12/05/2026 9:00 am - 5:00 pmLocation: Watertown City Center Park, 112 Lewis Ave S, Watertown, MN, 55388
Spend the morning at Watertown City Hall for family fun with Santa including photos with the big guy. Write your letters to Santa, craft holiday cards, see live animals, play an ornament guessing contest and games, and decorate cookies from 9am-12pm. The tree-lighting ceremony takes place at 4:30pm in City Center Park.
TWIN CITIES SOUTHEAST METRO SANTA EVENTS
Featuring events in Afton, Apple Valley, Burnsville, Cottage Grove, Eagan, Farmington, Hastings, Inver Grove Heights, Lakeville, Mendota Heights, Northfield, Rosemount, South St Paul, West St Paul & Woodbury.
Burnsville
Visit Santa at Burnsville Center
Date(s): 11/27/2026 - 12/24/2026 SEE TIMESLocation: Burnsville Center, 1178 Burnsville Center, Burnsville, MN, 55306
Santa is delighted to take pictures with your loved ones at Burnsville Center. Walk up photo sessions are welcome every day until closing time. Book your session with the link provided. November 27-December 24, 2026 – please see schedule for times. Packages start at $44.99.
Burnsville
Burnsville Winter Lighting Ceremony
Date(s): 11/25/2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pmLocation: Nicollet Commons Park, 12550 Nicollet Ave, Burnsville, MN, 55337
Nicollet Commons will be lit up with over 100,00 lights, snowflakes and a fully lit tree. Making an appearance at Burnsville’s illuminating Winter Lighting Ceremony are local choirs, refreshments, Mr. and Mrs. Claus, 200,000+ lights, and a 30-foot-tall tree. After the lighting ceremony at 6pm, the square will be lit evenings for the remainder of the season. Free event for all ages.
Cottage Grove
Cottage Grove Hometown Holiday
Date(s): 12/03/2026 4:30 pm - 7:00 pmLocation: Cottage Grove City Hall, 12800 Ravine Pkwy, Cottage Grove, MN, 55016
There will be a festive holiday tree for photos along with Santa and Mrs Claus, free treats and live reindeer, bonfires, wagon rides (starting at 4:30pm), kids activities, live music and food trucks. All ages are invited to this free event.
Eagan
Holz Farm Old Fashioned Holiday (FREE)
Date(s): 12/06/2026 12:00 pm - 3:00 pmLocation: Holz Farm Park, 4665 Manor Drive, Eagan, MN, 55123
Come visit Santa at this 1940s-era event at historic Holz Farm. Also enjoy hayrides, a bonfire, carols, and treats. Event is free and appropriate for all ages.
Eagan
Meet Santa at Lone Oak
Date(s): 12/08/2026 5:00 pm - 8:00 pmLocation: Lone Oak Bar & Grill, 3010 Eagandale Place, Eagan, MN, 55121
Enjoy a family dinner out and get to meet Santa! Kids meals include a sugar cookie to decorate. Plus, bring a Toys for Tots donation and get $5 off a kids meal. Reservations recommended.
Eagan
Eagan Community Tree Lighting
Date(s): 12/01/2026 4:00 pm - 6:30 pmLocation: Eagan Community Center, 1501 Central Parkway, Eagan, MN, 55121
Tree lighting complete with music, kids crafts, free admission to play at the Blast Indoor Playground, and more – see our schedule of events.
Hastings
Hastings Holiday Hoopla
Date(s): 11/28/2026 5:00 pm - 6:00 pmLocation: Hastings City Hall, 101 4th Street East, Hastings, MN, 55033
Enjoy a day of shopping and tons of family activities at businesses downtown, including a strolling Santa, horse-drawn wagon rides, cookie decorating, a holiday sing-along, storytime and more. Stick around to watch the street snowflakes light up at 5:15pm followed by the City Hall Tree Lighting at 5:30pm.
South St Paul
South St Paul Light Up the Square
Date(s): 11/29/2026 5:30 pm - 6:00 pmLocation: Central Square Community Center, 100 Seventh Avenue North, South St Paul, MN, 55075
South St Paul rings in the holidays complete with cocoa, caroling, Santa & Mrs. Claus, Frosty the Snowman and the lighting of the holiday tree. Countdown begins at 6pm! Free community event; all are welcome.
West St Paul
Santa's Holiday Hero Express Parade (FREE)
Date(s): 12/03/2026 5:30 pm - 8:00 pmLocation: West St Paul, West St Paul, West St Paul, MN , 55118
Two ways to see Santa in West St Paul’s parade: if your home is along the route, watch for the fire truck escorted by the West St. Paul Fire Department and other public safety vehicles. If your home isn’t on the route, try the Harmon Park parking lot for the best viewing.
Woodbury
Cabela's Santa's Wonderland (FREE)
Date(s): 11/07/2026 - 12/24/2026 10:00 am - 5:00 pmLocation: Cabela’s Woodbury, 8400 Hudson Rd, Woodbury, MN, 55125
It’s officially the start of the holiday season when Santa arrives at Cabela’s on November 7! Will you be there to welcome him? In Woodbury, kids can pick up a free Christmas plush while supplies last, grab some hot cocoa and cookies, marvel at the holiday tree lighting and greet Santa as he arrives at 5pm.
PICTURES WITH SANTA AT MALLS AND SHOPPING CENTERSÂ
Santa will simultaneously be at several malls and shopping areas during the pre-Christmas season selling photo packages. Most malls now allow (and often prefer) guests to book a time to reduce time standing in line and they even offer a night to bring in pets for pet photos.
- BURNSVILLE CENTERÂ
- EDEN PRAIRIE CENTERÂ
- MALL OF AMERICAÂ
- MAPLEWOOD MALL
- NORTHTOWN MALL
- RIDGEDALE CENTERÂ
- ROSEDALE CENTERÂ
- SOUTHDALE CENTERÂ
TRACK SANTA’S FLIGHT PATH
The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) starts tracking Mr. Claus on December 1st through Christmas Eve.
Are you looking for a Santa for any of these events or is just a list of existing events?
Hi Santa Steve. We just list existing events for parents to find a place to take their kids to visit Santa. Thank goodness! Because that would be a LOT of events to manage. If you are looking for events that may be looking for a Santa, I would recommend clicking the links to the 2024 events to find contact information for the specific venues.
Photos with Santa!
Wed. Dec 11th 4:30 pm – 7 pm
Drop off a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots and snap a festive photo with Santa Claus!
Hosted appetizers, cookies, hot cocoa and a festive cocktail
A’BriTin Catering
22280 Chippendale Ave W.
Farmington, MN 55024
Thanks for sharing, Mallory! Appetizers and Santa photos — It’s a win for everyone.
Hey, you missed one!
Santa’s North Pole Experience
13600 Pioneer Trail, in Eden Prairie
(The Cummins-Phipps-Grill House)
Open Fridays 2-7 PM / Saturdays and Sundays 10AM to 6PM
Visit Santa for photos, face painting, coloring, etc. Make your appointments online.
call 952-373-1710 for more information
Thanks, John. We’ll get this on the list.
how to get this offer
I think you just go to bed on Christmas Eve and he just shows up. You might have to live in a first world and/or Christian country, though. I haven’t tested that theory.
River oaks golf course in Cottage Grove has a Santa breakfast!
Thank you, Jess. We will look into this and get it added.
FYI, I think the Caring Santa and the Bedtime Santa descriptions and links are mixed up.
Thanks for catching that, Kristen! I had to laugh thinking Caring Santa would have been fine with pajamas, too! 🙂