There’s nothing sweeter than a visit with Santa during the Christmas season. With a nervous wave, a giggly smile, and a wish list in hand, a stop to see Santa is a magical moment in the eyes of children and parents alike.
We have the answer to your question, “Where can I find Santa near me?”
At these festive events, your children will get a chance to visit with the big guy before he arrives on Christmas. Make sure to check out reservation details, as many required advance registration. These are perfect opportunities for photos with Santa!
Have you seen our list of where to dine with Santa for 2025? Check it out for even more holiday fun!
Please note that many of these events require pre-registration. Be sure to click on each link for additional information, including any fees.
Santa Events Spanning the Season
Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro (Bolingbrook)
November 2 – December 24, 2025
Free photos and crafts. Reservations open one week in advance.
Santa Photos (Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg)
November 6 – December 24, 2025 | times vary
Reservations can be made in advance to visit with Santa.
Santa Photo Experience at Orland Square Mall (Orland Park)
November 7 through December 24, 2025 | times vary
Located in the lower level H&M wing. Reservations encouraged but not required.
Santa Experience at North Riverside Park Mall (North Riverside)
November 11 through December 24, 2025 | times vary
Stop by the mall for a personal visit with Santa. No fee to meet him, but photo packages are available for sale.
Photos with Santa at Oakbrook Center
November 14 – December 24, 2025 | times vary
Reservations are not required, but encouraged.
Lincoln Park ZooLights (Chicago)
November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026 | 4:30pm – 10:00pm
Tickets are available online for $7-10, with free admission on most Monday nights. Photos with Santa are available through December 23, 2025.
Santa at 900 North Michigan Shops (Chicago)
November 22 – December 24, 2025 | times vary
All visits include digital downloads, validated parking, and a gift from Santa. Reservations are strongly encouraged.
Meet Santa at ABT Electronics (Glenview)
November 28, 2025 | 11:00am – 3:00pm
Saturdays and Sundays from November 29 – December 21, 2025 | 11:00am – 3:00pm
Stop for a free visit and photo opportunity with Santa.
Photos with Santa (Western Springs)
November 29, 30 December 6, and 7, 2025 | 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Reserve your spot online in advance for a visit and photo opportunity with Santa. Special activities will take place as the Western Springs Business Association celebrates their Winter Wonderland.
Santa is Coming to Downtown Glen Ellyn
Saturdays and Sundays from November 29 – December 21, 2025 | 10:30am – 12:30pm
Visit with Santa at Candy Cane Lane and take a photo with him.
Complimentary Visits with Santa (Downtown Downers Grove)
Saturdays and Sundays from November 29 – December 21, 2025 | 1:00pm – 4:00pm
The Gingerbread House with Santa sits at the corner of Main Street and Curtiss Street.
Santa’s House (Downtown St. Charles)
Saturdays and Sundays from November 29 – December 21, 2025 | 1:00pm – 4:00pm
No reservations required to visit with Santa.
Sundays with Santa (Batavia)
Sundays from November 30 – December 21, 2025 | 12:00pm – 2:00pm
Visit the Boardwalk Shops to see Santa.
SantaLand (Macy’s Chicago)
Opens November 1, 2025 | times vary
In 2024, Macy’s SantaLand was on the 5th floor of Macy’s on State Street. Reservations were required, you can make a reservation online 5 days in advance of your visit.
Santa’s Naperville Workshop (Naperville)
December 1 – 21, 2025 | times vary
Registration required.
Holiday Lights in Lilacia Park (Lombard)
December 7-21, 2025 | 6:00 – 8:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, 5:00 – 7:00pm on Sundays
While the holiday lights run from December 7, 2025 to January 5, 2026, the dates listed above have Santa visits. Visitors can enjoy hot cocoa and cookies, as well as see a show with holiday characters. Please bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate.
Photos with Santa at Fashion Outlets of Chicago (Rosemont)
November 14 – December 24, 2025
Advance reservations are recommended.
Photos with Santa at Yorktown Center (Lombard)
November 15 – December 24, 2025
Visit with Santa in Center Court.
Santa Sundays (Main Street Promenade, Naperville)
Dates and times to be announced
Visit downtown Naperville for holiday photo opportunities.
Where to See Santa in the Western Suburbs
Santa and Christmas Events in the Northwest Suburbs
Want to enjoy more activities with St. Nick? Check out the polar express, holiday express, and Santa trolleys, or find more ideas for holiday fun with kids in Chicagoland.
