Santa is going to be VERY busy this year around Austin. Many of these require tickets and/or reservations, so check out our round-up and book your spot. Also, mark your calendar for the Best Holiday Family Events in Austin!
— Cabela’s & Bass Pro Shops
Through Dec. 24
Make reservations to experience Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops in Round Rock and Cabela’s in Buda. Families who visit Santa receive a free 4×6 studio-quality photo and a free digital video greeting card to share on social media. During your visit, you can also mail a letter to Santa! Reserve your free visit online for Bass Pro Shops or Cabela’s.
— Austin-Area Simon Malls
All locations through Dec. 24
Local Simon Mall shopping centers will host Santa visits for families as part of the Simon Santa Photo Experience. You can reserve your spot at Barton Creek Square, The Domain, Lakeline Mall, or Round Rock Premium Outlets here. Santa will be available through December 24, and you can reserve your spot starting at $19.99 plus fees.
— Hill Country Galleria
Through December 24
Selfies With Santa is back at Hill Country Galleria! Visit Santa at his special Workshop next door to Buenos Aires Cafe. While there are no professional photographers on site, you can snap your selfie or use Hill Country Galleria’s Halo Selfie Light FREE of charge.
— Santa & Live Reindeer at Sweet Eats Fruit Farm
Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 24 | Check here
Visit Santa and his live reindeer at this adorable farm in Georgetown. Their annual Christmas Festival offers fun activities with Santa on site from 11 am – 5 pm. Get tickets to visit the farm, meet live reindeer, and enjoy a hay maze, pony rides petting zoo, and adorable photo ops including The Gingerbread House. Tickets are $19.95 online, with various options for annual membership. The entrance fee includes unlimited access to all activities. Purchase here in advance.
— Austin Steam Train’s North Pole Flyer
Several dates/times are available through Dec. 17 | Tickets sell out quickly – grab yours here
Children of all ages can experience Polar Express-inspired moments while they go for a real train ride with Santa and Mrs. Claus and enjoy storytime, hot cocoa, sing-alongs with elves, and Christmas cookies along their journey. Tickets start at $45, and you can book online here or by calling 512-477-8468.
— Santa’s Jingle House
Several dates and times are available through December 22
Immerse yourself in holiday spirit at Santa’s Jingle House in Round Rock. Their Family Fun with Santa event includes a 4×6 printed photo with Santa, story time with Mrs. Claus, ornament decorating cookie decorating, letters to Santa, as well as one drink and one treat. Tickets are $27.99 (kids under 2 are free) and you can check here for dates and tickets.
Trail of Lights
Through Dec. 24
You can see Santa’s House and Workshop at Austin Trail of Lights. General Admission ranges from $0 – $8 depending on the night and includes access to the Trail of Lights, free photos with Santa, and more! Children 11 and under are always free to enter with a ticketed adult. Check out our article on Everything You Need to Know About this Year’s Trail of Lights here.
Looking for more holiday fun? Check out:
