Sending a letter to Santa is one of the sweetest holiday traditions, and Chicago makes it easy for kids to get their wish lists straight to the North Pole. From decorated red mailboxes to community parks and holiday events, families can find plenty of places to drop off their letters around the city and suburbs.
Many locations offer special touches like reply letters, Santa-approved stamps and festive displays perfect for a quick photo. We verified dates, hours and details through park districts, event pages and official organizers so families can plan with confidence. Here are the top places where Chicago families can send off their letters to Santa this year.
Lincolnwood Village Hall – North Pole Mailbox
Families in the northern suburbs can stop by Lincolnwood Village Hall, which sets up an official “North Pole Mailbox” each holiday season. Kids can drop off letters in a bright red mailbox right in the lobby, and those who include a return address will receive a personalized response from Santa. The setup is quick, convenient and perfect for families running errands.
- Address: 6900 N. Lincoln Ave., Lincolnwood
- Dates: Now through Dec. 14
- Phone: (847) 673-1540
Chicago Park District “Letters to Santa” program
Kids can send their letters through the Chicago Park District’s popular annual program, which delivers messages straight to Santa’s official North Pole address. Each participating park sets up a decorated drop-off box where children can place their wish lists throughout the holiday season. Families who include a return address often receive a postcard response from Santa’s helpers. It’s a festive, simple way for young writers to take part in a beloved Chicago tradition.
- Address: 435 W. Illinois Ave., Palatine
- Dates: 6 a.m.-9:30 p.m., now through Dec. 15
- Phone: (847) 991-0333
Westmont Park District – Santa’s Mailbox
Families can drop off wish lists and letters to Santa at the Westmont Community Center and receive a special reply straight from the North Pole. Parents can pick up the official letter form at the front desk, making it easy for kids to send their holiday wishes. It’s a simple and festive stop for families visiting the community center this season.
- Address: 75 E Richmond St., Westmont
- Dates: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, through Dec. 19
- Phone: (630) 963-5252
Viceroy Chicago – Letters to Santa
Families can stop by the Viceroy Chicago Library to let little ones write down their holiday wishes and drop them into a festive Santa mailbox. The beautifully decorated lobby creates a magical atmosphere, making it a charming spot for kids to share their Christmas hopes. It’s a simple, heartwarming activity that brings extra joy to the season.
- Address: 1118 N. State St., Chicago
- Dates: Now through Dec. 24
- Phone: (312) 586-2000
Maggie Daley Park – Santa’s Mailbox
Maggie Daley Park transforms into a winter wonderland each holiday season, complete with its own Santa Mailbox for young visitors. Kids can drop off letters while enjoying the park’s skyline views, whimsical play garden and nearby ice skating ribbon. The mailbox is located near the Fieldhouse and is beautifully decorated for the season. Don’t forget to add a return address — Santa’s helpers often write back!
- Address: 337 E. Randolph St., Chicago
- Dates: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 13-14, Dec. 20-21
- Phone: (312) 552-3000
Downtown Naperville – Santa’s Mailbox
While shopping in downtown Naperville, families can stop by Santa’s Mailbox at the corner of Main and Jefferson to drop off holiday wish lists. Kids who include their name and return address will receive a personalized reply from Santa and his magical elves right at home. It’s a festive and convenient stop for families enjoying the holiday season in the heart of Naperville.
- Address: South Main Street and West Jefferson Avenue, Naperville
- Dates: All day, Dec. 18
- Phone: (630) 544-3372
