Photo Credit: Fashion Outlets of Chicago
For kids wondering if Santa is coming to town this year, Christmas is not canceled. They can still have some special one-on-one time with jolly old St. Nick at a safe distance. We gathered a list of Santa experiences that the entire family will love.
Note: We’re updating our website as quickly as we can, but changes may occur due to COVID-19. Please double check before heading out for the most updated information on tree availability, safety precautions and any last-minute closings. Stay safe!
Virtual
Virtual Santa Visit with Neiman Marcus
When: Nov. 27-Dec. 24
Yes, you can Zoom with Santa this holiday season. Neiman Marcus is setting up the virtual appointments with a charity in mind. Once you book your time with Santa, you’ll get a link to donate to the Boys & Girls Club of America. It seems like a great way to give back as a family!
A Virtual Visit from the Clauses
When: Through Dec. 31
Chat with both Santa and Mrs. Claus in a personalized video call. The calls range from 5 to 30 minutes depending on the package you select. Parents will have a chance to work with Santa to add some more magic to the call.
Dreezy Claus
When: Daily
Known as Chicago’s Black Santa, you can book a virtual visit with Dreezy Claus for up to 15 minutes. Kids can chat on Streamyard or Zoom to talk about what they want for Christmas or more.
Macy’s Santaland
When: Through Dec. 24
Kids of all ages travel virtually through Macy’s Santaland at Herald Square in New York City. Meet St. Nick himself via an interactive pre-recorded video that will bring the wonder of the season to life. And before it’s all over, kids will be able to take an interactive selfie with Santa Claus for a special keepsake.
In Person
Photos with Santa at Fashion Outlets of Chicago
When: Dec. 3-6, Dec. 8-23, Dec. 24
Where: 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont
The Fashion Outlets of Chicago brings a contactless Santa experience this year. Santa and his visitors will be wearing masks while keeping a safe distance from each other. The photo area will be clean between guest visits as well. A variety of photo packages are available for the experience including a mailbox to drop off your letters to Santa.
Holly Jolly Drive-In
When: Dec. 4-6, 9-13, 16-24
Where: 2833 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago
Guests will experience a holiday-style movie experience, enhanced with twinkling decor and appearances by The Grinch, Santa, Mrs. Claus, reindeer and many other favorite characters. Watch Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer and other family classics during the 1.5-hour, family-friendly experience.
Miracle on West Madison
When: Dec. 4-5, 9-13, 16-20, 23-24
Where: 645 W. Madison St., Chicago
Guests will experience a holiday-style movie experience, enhanced with twinkling decor and appearances by The Grinch, Santa, Mrs. Claus, reindeer and many other favorite characters. Watch Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer and other family classics during the 1.5-hour, family-friendly experience.
Santa at ZooLights
When: Through Dec. 23
Cost: Included in general admission
If you’re attending Lincoln Park Zoo’s holiday light display before Christmas, you might have a chance to see Santa. Socially-distanced photos with Santa are available under their festive activities. You can take photos with him from 4:30-9:30 p.m. until he heads back to the North Pole.
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