Get ready for a magical holiday season! Santa Claus is coming to town, and South Florida is filled with festive opportunities to meet him. From charming malls and holiday markets to unique traditions and pet-friendly options, this guide highlights the best spots to capture the holiday spirit.
Whether you’re snapping pictures, sharing wish lists, or making memories, these events promise smiles for the whole family. Many locations offer sensory-friendly accommodations and special pet dates, making it easier for everyone to join in the fun.
Where to See Santa in Broward County
Santa by the Sea – Wilton Manors
Is it a bird? A plane? A yacht? No, it’s Santa Claus sailing the waterways of Wilton Manors! A beloved tradition in Broward County, Santa by the Sea kicks off at Colohatchee Park Boat Ramp (1975 NE 15th Ave). Santa and his elves cruise around Island City, spreading holiday cheer to residents onshore and along the water. Whether you live near the canals or plan to visit one of the parks, this nautical holiday event is a one-of-a-kind experience.
- Date: December 18, 2024
- Time: 5:30 PM
- Location: Colohatchee Boat Ramp
- Address:1975 NE 15 Ave, Wilton Manors, FL 33305
- Cost: Free
Wilton Wonderland at Hagen Park
Celebrate the season with Santa at Wilton Wonderland! Join him for a morning packed with family-friendly fun, including storytime, crafts, games, and more.
- Date: December 21, 2024
- Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Location: Hagen Park, 2020 Wilton Drive
- Cost: Free
Cookies and Cocoa with Santa – Cooper City Community Center
Cooper City’s annual Cookies and Cocoa with Santa is a delightful evening event for local families. Enjoy hot cocoa, crafts, photos with Santa, and plenty of holiday cheer.
- Date: Friday, December 13
- Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
- Location: Community Center, 9000 SW 50th Place
- Registration Begins: Wednesday, November 13
- Deadline to Register: December 9 or until full
- Who: Cooper City residents (proof of residency required)
Santa at Coral Square Mall
Starting November 15, 2024, Santa sets up shop at Coral Square Mall, sponsored by Cheryl’s Cookies and Harry & David. Pet photos with Santa are scheduled for December 1, and sensory-friendly sessions are available on December 8, ensuring an inclusive experience for children with special needs. Visit during weekdays to avoid long lines and create magical memories with Santa.
- Date: Starting November 2024 (check website for exact dates)
- Time: Times vary, check the website
- Location: 9469 W Atlantic Blvd, Coral Springs
Santa at Broward Mall
Center Court at Broward Mall transforms into a festive wonderland, perfect for capturing timeless holiday photos with Santa. Bring your furry friends every Monday for Dog Photos with Santa, and enjoy a hassle-free experience by visiting during weekday afternoons.
- Date: Starting November 2024 (check website for exact dates)
- Time: Times vary, check the website
- Location: 8000 W Broward Blvd, Plantation
Santa at Bass Pro Shops
Bass Pro Shops offers a unique Santa experience with FREE photo sessions! Reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot. Bookings can be made up to seven days in advance. This is a great option for families looking to enjoy a stress-free visit with the jolly man himself.
Where to See Santa in Miami-Dade County
Meet Santa at Aventura Mall
Step into a holiday dream at Aventura Mall’s Holiday Village, complete with whimsical décor, topiary reindeer, and an enchanting model train display. Capture the magic with a Santa photo session and enjoy festive shopping and delicious treats.
- Dates: Starting November 2024 (check website for exact dates)
- Location: 19501 Biscayne Blvd, Aventura
Meet Santa at Dadeland Mall
Create a cherished holiday tradition at Dadeland Mall. Santa arrives on November 22 and will be available for photos through December 24. Reserve your spot early to ensure a seamless experience.
- Dates: Starting November 2024 (check website for exact dates)
- Location: 7535 N Kendall Dr, Miami
Santa at Deering Estate
Santa Claus visits the historic Deering Estate for a day of festive activities. Families can enjoy storytime with Santa’s elves, holiday arts and crafts, and professional photos in the beautifully decorated Great Hall.
- Date: December 14, 2024
- Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Location: Deering Estate, 16701 SW 72nd Avenue, Palmetto Bay
Santa at Dolphin Mall
Capture the season’s magic at Dolphin Mall, where Santa is available for bilingual (Spanish and English) visits. Opt for the Signature Santa Visit, a private 15-minute photo shoot available for a limited time. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended.
- Dates: November 22 – December 24, 2024
- Location: 11401 NW 12th St, Miami
Santa at The Falls
Santa arrives in spectacular fashion at The Falls, kicking off the holiday season with performances, crafts, and snowfall. A favorite for families, this event combines holiday magic with South Florida charm.
- Date: Starting November 2024 (check website for exact dates)
- Location: 8888 SW 136th St, Miami
Breakfast with Santa – InterContinental Miami
Join Santa for breakfast as part of the InterContinental Miami’s Winter Wonderland events. Guests can enjoy a delicious meal, holiday-themed activities, and a chance to snap photos with Santa.
- Date: December 16, 2024
- Time: 8 AM – 11 AM
- Location: 100 Chopin Plaza, Miami
Where to See Santa in Palm Beach County
Photos with Santa at CityPlace – West Palm Beach
Head to CityPlace every weekend from November 9 through December 24 for a chance to meet Santa and capture holiday photos. The event is free and open to the public. Don’t miss the nightly snowfalls at 6:30 PM, 7:30 PM, and 8:30 PM for an extra dose of holiday magic.
- Date: Friday, Saturday and Sunday from November 9-December 24.
- Time: 6:00-8:00pm Friday and Saturday & 5:00-7:00pm Sunday
- Location: 700 S Rosemary Ave Suite 200, West Palm Beach
Santa at Town Center at Boca Raton
Snap a photo with Santa at Town Center’s beautifully decorated Santa Photo Experience. This event is pet-friendly on select dates, allowing the whole family to join in on the fun.
- Dates: Starting November 2024 (check website for exact dates)
- Location: 6000 Glades Rd, Boca Raton, FL 33431
Santa at The Gardens Mall
Visit Santa’s Enchanted Garden at The Gardens Mall for a truly magical holiday photo. Make a reservation to avoid wait times, and don’t forget to bring your pets on designated pet-photo nights!
- Dates: November 9 – December 24, 2024
- Location: 3101 PGA Boulevard, Palm Beach Gardens
Santa at the Mall at Wellington Green
Take a photo with Santa in the enchanting Ice Palace at The Mall at Wellington Green. Avoid the crowds by booking your visit online in advance.
- Dates: November 14 – December 24, 2024
- Location: 10300 Forest Hill Blvd, Wellington
Breakfast with Santa – DeVos-Blum YMCA
The DeVos-Blum YMCA hosts a special free Breakfast with Santa, complete with arts and crafts, holiday-themed activities, and photo opportunities.
- Date: Dec 8, 8:00 am – Dec 8, 12:00 pm
- Location: 6631 Palmetto Circle S., Boca Raton
Pet Photos and Sensory-Friendly Sessions
Many South Florida locations, including Coral Square Mall, Town Center at Boca Raton, and The Gardens Mall, offer pet photo opportunities and sensory-friendly sessions. These events are designed to ensure everyone, including pets and children with special needs, can enjoy meeting Santa in a comfortable environment.
Final Tips for Visiting Santa
- Book Early: Reservations are required at many locations, especially for sensory-friendly or pet-friendly sessions.
- Plan Your Visit: Weekdays and mornings often have shorter wait times.
- Dress for the Occasion: Coordinate outfits for festive photos, and don’t forget Santa hats for the little ones!
- Bring a Wish List: Kids can hand-deliver their letters to Santa, making the visit extra special.
No matter where you choose to meet Santa in South Florida, these events are sure to bring joy and create lasting holiday memories. Happy holidays!