Pictures With Santa Around Chicago (2024 Map!)

Grab your wish list and those cameras! The Arboretum of South Barrington is hosting Santa and Mrs. Claus throughout the holiday season. Join us in our Holiday Tent, decked out with all the trimmings. Please bring your own camera for photos.

9am-12pm

Guests will enjoy a delicious brunch at the Magnolia Cafe & Bakery then head over to Santa’s Workshop where children will pick out a gift and festive temporary tattoo, make a sand art creation, and get a goodie bag full of crafts to take home.

Seatings at 9am, 10:30am & 12pm

Taking place prior to shopping center opening, “Santa Cares” will be carefully managed to accommodate guests with autism and other special needs, including necessary environmental adjustments to meet guests’ sensory challenges.

9-10am

Experience an 1880s holiday season in Schaumburg, when Victorian decorations and traditional German foods filled the home with light and warmth, while family members prepared special handmade gifts to share. Enjoy traditional holiday treats, crafts for children, marshmallows and warm beverages around a bonfire, and even a visit by Father Christmas!

12-4pm

Brookfield Zoo offers a heartwarming visit with Santa. You can indulge in a scrumptious holiday buffet that features freshly carved meats, seasonal accompaniments, children’s buffet for the young classic eaters, and an assortment of desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Santa is coming to Geneva Commons!! Head over to Geneva Commons to take your own photo with Santa! Plus enjoy some fun activities! 

11am-3pm

Angela Salonga said:  Celebrate the holiday season at our "Breakfast with Santa" hosted in the heart of our hotel's festive haven, Prancer's Pub. Immerse yourself in the warmth of the season as you step into this dazzling holiday-themed pop-up, transformed into a winter wonderland that promises to captivate both young and old alike. From whimsical ornaments to twinkling lights, every corner of this pop-up is adorned with festive charm, providing the perfect backdrop for creating treasured holiday memories with your loved ones. As you indulge in a delightful breakfast spread, be prepared for a visit from the man in red himself – Santa Claus! He'll be making a special appearance to spread joy, listen to children's wishes, and pose for memorable photos.

9am-12pm

Located in the Kiebler Room, on the second floor of the large barn, Santa's Craft Corner includes refreshments, crafts, and a visit with the big guy himself! Drop-in event.

10am-2pm

Enjoy a festive visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, including photos, holiday cheer, and a special screening of Olaf’s Frozen Adventure.

1-3pm

Stop by Winterland at Gallagher Way this holiday season to enjoy music, Santa, seasonal food and drinks, rides, and plenty of holiday cheer.

Angela Salonga said:  This holiday season Santa is coming to town to visit a special pop-up experience at Chef Art Smith’s Reunion located at the front of Chicago’s Navy Pier. The celebrity chef-driven concept is thrilled to announce the launch of a ‘Santa’s Southern Workshop’ pop-up! Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a comforting soul-filled prix fixe menu developed by Chef Art Smith within the magical pop-up and can visit the big man, Mr. Claus while dining to make for a heart-warming holiday experience. Santa will be onsite for families to visit and take pictures alongside him. Picture packages are available for purchase on the Where Is Santa website.