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Where to See Santa in Phoenix (2026)

Free photos, Santa breakfasts and festive outings across Phoenix, Scottsdale and the Valley.

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Where to See Santa in Phoenix (2026)

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In Phoenix, seeing Santa can be a free photo on a Saturday morning, a pancake breakfast on the Scottsdale Waterfront or the first stop on a night of desert lights. The trick is picking the outing your family actually wants. A toddler who's happy with a quick hello doesn't need a resort ticket, and a family making a night of it will want more than a photo line.

This guide covers the whole Valley, from Glendale and Surprise to Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert and Queen Creek, plus two northern Arizona train and workshop trips. Dates are for 2026. Santa usually leaves before the lights come down, so plan around the Santa dates in each listing rather than the festival's full season.

Santa in Phoenix at a Glance

PlaceAreaSanta datesCost
Bass Pro ShopsMesa + GlendaleNov 8–Dec 24Free, print included
Scottsdale Fashion SquareScottsdaleNov 6–Dec 24Free visit; photos extra
Biltmore Fashion ParkBiltmoreNov 28–29; Dec 5–24Photo packages
Arrowhead Towne CenterGlendaleNov 6–Dec 24Free visit; photos extra
Chandler Fashion CenterChandlerNov 13–Dec 24Free visit; photos extra
SanTan VillageGilbertNov 13–Dec 24Free visit; photos extra
Kierland CommonsScottsdaleNov 20–Dec 24Free visit; photos extra
Scottsdale QuarterNorth ScottsdaleNov 20–Dec 24From $44.99
Superstition Springs CenterEast MesaNov 13–Dec 24Free visit; photos extra
Old Town Scottsdale Farmers MarketOld Town ScottsdaleNov 28; Dec 5, 12, 19Free, print included
Santa's HouseDowntown ChandlerDec 5, 12, 15, 19Free
WestgateGlendaleNov 28; Dec 5, 12, 19, 21–24Free, own phone
Arizona BoardwalkSalt River, ScottsdaleDec 12, 19Free
Phoenix Premium OutletsChandlerDec 12, 19Free, own phone
PJs in the ParkDowntown PhoenixNov 28Free, own phone
Light Up AhwatukeeAhwatukeeNov 21Free
Glendale Glitters kickoffDowntown GlendaleNov 27–28Free event
Christmas in the ParkLitchfield ParkDec 12Free event
Desert Ridge Tree LightingNorth PhoenixNov 23Free
Tempe Marketplace Tree LightingTempeNov 25Free
Kiwanis Christmas for the KidsCarefreeNov 28Free
Cotton Fest & Tree LightingBuckeyeNov 28Free
Fantasy of Lights Street ParadeDowntown TempeNov 28Free
Stroll in the GlowFountain HillsDec 5Free
Fantasy of Lights Boat ParadeTempe Town LakeDec 12Free entry
ZooLightsPapago ParkNov 25–Dec 23$35; photos extra
Desert Botanical GardenPapago ParkNov 27–29; Dec 18–23Adults $39.95–$44.95
Christmas at the PrincessNorth ScottsdaleNov 20–Dec 24Admission + Santa visit
Jingle at JWDesert RidgeNov 18–Dec 24Photo package
Desert Lights FestivalSurpriseNightly from Nov 20From $24.95
Vertuccio FarmsEast MesaDec 4–6, 11–13, 18–23$15
Schnepf FarmsQueen CreekFestival nights from Nov 27From $19.95
Children's Museum of PhoenixDowntown PhoenixDec 5–6$19 admission
Breakfast at HD SOUTHDowntown GilbertDec 5$20
Breakfast at Litchfield'sLitchfield ParkDec 5–6, 12–13, 19–20$50 adults, $30 kids
Pancakes & PajamasScottsdale WaterfrontDec 12$30 per person
Breakfast with Accessible SantaNorth PhoenixDec 5Free
McCormick-Stillman Railroad ParkScottsdaleDec 1, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19–23$15 ages 3+
Enchanted IslandEncanto ParkDec 12–13, 19–20Free entry; rides extra
The North Pole ExperienceFlagstaffSelect dates Nov 20–Dec 24From $50
The Polar ExpressWilliamsSelect dates Nov 6–Dec 30Varies by date
Sensory Santa at The PostDowntown MesaDec 5Free; register ahead
Sensitive SantaSurpriseDec 12$5 registration
Listed in the same order as the sections below. A free visit and a free photo aren't the same thing: at the malls, talking to Santa is free but prints and digital files cost extra, and at a lights festival an included photo still needs the festival ticket.

Santa Photos in Phoenix: Bass Pro and the Malls

If the picture is the point, start here. Bass Pro includes a free printed photo; at the malls, talking to Santa is free and professional photos cost extra. Ask before using your own camera, since a free visit doesn't always mean personal photos are allowed. Shopping while you're there? See our Phoenix holiday shopping guide.

Santa's Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops

Santa's Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops

1133 N Dobson Rd, Mesa, AZ 85201, USA

If you want a proper Santa photo without paying for a package, start here. Every visit at the Mesa and Glendale stores comes with a free 4×6 print and a shareable video, and you can book a time up to a week ahead. The Glendale store is the old Cabela's, now under the Bass Pro name. Details: Nov 8–Dec 24, daily during store hours. Free visit, print and video; extra photo products cost more. 1133 N. Dobson Road, Mesa; 9380 W. Glendale Avenue, Glendale. Free reservations open seven days ahead; walk-ins are first come, first served.

Scottsdale Fashion Square

Scottsdale Fashion Square

7014 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, USA

A classic indoor portrait you can fit around a shopping day, with a season that starts early enough to finish before Thanksgiving. Details: Nov 6–Dec 24, closed Thanksgiving; Santa's in Palm Court. Free visit; photo packages extra. Sensory session Dec 6; pet nights on Mondays.

Biltmore Fashion Park

Biltmore Fashion Park

2502 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85016, USA

The central Phoenix pick, easy to pair with lunch at the Biltmore. Bookings are 15-minute arrival windows shared by several families, so expect a short wait. Details: Nov 28–29 and select days Dec 5–24. Photo packages. Sensory session Dec 6, 9–11 a.m.; pet night Dec 7, 5–7 p.m. on Center Lawn.

Arrowhead Towne Center

Arrowhead Towne Center

7700 W Arrowhead Towne Center, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA

The northwest Valley's traditional Santa set, near JCPenney. The photo package is optional, so a child who only wants to say hello can do just that. Details: Nov 6–Dec 24, closed Thanksgiving. Free visit; photo packages extra. Sensory morning Dec 6, 9–10:30 a.m.; pet nights Mondays through Dec 14, 4–7 p.m.

Chandler Fashion Center

Chandler Fashion Center

3111 W Chandler Blvd, Chandler, AZ 85226, USA

The no-fuss Chandler appointment when the photo matters more than a night of attractions. Santa's near Macy's, and a free hello without photos is fine too. Details: Nov 13–Dec 24, closed Thanksgiving. Free visit; photo packages extra. Pet nights Mondays through Dec 14, 4–7 p.m.; Dec 6 sensory session by reservation.

SanTan Village

SanTan Village

2218 E Williams Field Rd Suite 235, Gilbert, AZ 85295, USA

Cowboy Santa visits on four Tuesday evenings, a fun change if the family already has a shelf of standard portraits. Pets are welcome any time Santa's in, leashed or in a carrier. Details: Nov 13–Dec 24, closed Thanksgiving; Cowboy Santa Nov 17, 24 and Dec 1, 8, 5–7 p.m. Free visit; photo packages extra. Children's Play Area near Dillard's.

Kierland Commons

Kierland Commons

15210 N Scottsdale Rd Suite 305, Scottsdale, AZ 85254, USA

Santa sets up outdoors in Center Plaza, so it's easy to fold into an afternoon at the shops and a meal nearby. Book a slot rather than going by store hours. Details: Nov 20–Dec 24, closed Thanksgiving. Free visit; photo packages extra. Sensory Santa Dec 6, 9–10 a.m.; pet nights Nov 30, Dec 7 and 14, 4–7 p.m.

Scottsdale Quarter

Scottsdale Quarter

15279 N Scottsdale Rd Ste 260, Scottsdale, AZ 85254, USA

If you already know you want professional photos, read the packages closely. The entry-level option is prints only, and the Standard package adds digital images. Details: Nov 20–Dec 24; hours vary. Packages from $44.99; Standard with digital images $49.99. Reservations encouraged; walk-ups welcome.

Superstition Springs Center

Superstition Springs Center

6555 E Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85206, USA

A traditional Santa stop for east Mesa families, in Center Court near JCPenney. Visit free or buy a package; either way it's a short appointment, not a whole evening. Details: Nov 13–Dec 24, closed Thanksgiving. Free visit; photo packages extra. Pet sessions Mondays, Nov 16–Dec 14.

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Free Santa Events and Tree Lightings in Phoenix

Free Santa visits across the Valley, from Saturday-morning photo stops to festivals, parades and tree lightings where Santa is one part of the night. Most run on set dates, so we list Santa's own window wherever it's posted. Several are part of a market; see our Phoenix Christmas markets guide.

Santa at the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market

Santa at the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market

3939 N Drinkwater Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, USA

Come for Santa, then stay for breakfast and a wander through the stalls. The printed photo is free, the dog can be in it too, and the market keeps going for an hour after Santa leaves. Details: Nov 28; Dec 5, 12 and 19, 9 a.m.–noon (market 8 a.m.–1 p.m.). Free visit and printed photo. Public parking in Old Town is free within posted limits.

Santa's House in Downtown Chandler

Santa's House in Downtown Chandler

3 S Arizona Ave, Chandler, AZ 85224, USA

Santa's house sits beside the Tumbleweed Tree, which gives the photo a backdrop you won't get at a mall. The Saturday mornings are calmer than opening night, when Santa leaves the house for a while to join the Parade of Lights. Details: Dec 5, 4:30–6:30 p.m. and 8–9 p.m.; Dec 12 and 19, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.; Dec 15, 6–8 p.m. Free visits and photos. The house is under the shade structure north of the tree, on the west side of the park.

Santa at Westgate

Santa at Westgate

6751 N Sunset Blvd, Glendale, AZ 85305, USA

Santa sits by the Christmas tree in Fountain Park, and you take the picture on your own phone. There are no reservations, so get there early in the window and plan lunch in the district afterward. Details: Nov 28; Dec 5, 12, 19 and 21–24, 10 a.m.–noon. Free.

Santa at Arizona Boardwalk

Santa at Arizona Boardwalk

9500 East Vía de Ventura, Scottsdale, AZ 85256, USA

Both Saturdays are free to enter, but they're different outings. December 12 is the holiday fair, with free professional Santa photos and snow play. December 19 brings Santa back for a character carnival. Details: Holiday fair Dec 12, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.; character carnival Dec 19, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Free outdoor events; indoor attractions need their own tickets.

Santa at Phoenix Premium Outlets

Santa at Phoenix Premium Outlets

4976 Premium Outlets Way, Chandler, AZ 85226, USA

An easy add-on to an afternoon of shopping. Bring your own camera for a free photo, and stay for the holiday entertainment and kids' activities running during the same three hours. Details: Dec 12 and 19, noon–3 p.m. Free photos on your own camera.

PJs in the Park

PJs in the Park

1 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA

Pajamas, a blanket and a phone camera are all you need. Santa photos open the night at Patriots Square, then the lawn settles in for a short holiday film and The Polar Express. Details: Nov 28, 6–9 p.m.; Santa photos from 6, films at 6:30 and 7. Free; hot cocoa for sale. Santa isn't promised through the movie.

Light Up Ahwatukee Holiday Festival

Light Up Ahwatukee Holiday Festival

1010 E Marketplace Wy SE, Phoenix, AZ 85048, USA

Get the Santa photo done before Thanksgiving at Ahwatukee's all-day festival. Santa's Village runs a free photo stop through the afternoon, with music, vendors and food nearby. Details: Nov 21; Santa photos noon–5 p.m. (festival 10 a.m.–11 p.m.). Free admission, parking and Santa photos; inflatables extra. Look for Santa's Village by Candy Cane Lane.

Glendale Glitters Kickoff

Glendale Glitters Kickoff

W Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301, USA

Santa drops by the two-night kickoff of Glendale Glitters, when the downtown lights switch on with carolers, vendors and live music around Murphy Park. Treat it as a community night with a Santa stop rather than a booked photo session. Details: Nov 27–28, 5–10 p.m.; lighting ceremony Nov 27 at 5:45 p.m. Free. Check Santa's hours and photo setup when you arrive.

Christmas in the Park

Christmas in the Park

279 N Orch Ln, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340, USA

Small-town Christmas done properly: a holiday market, a hometown parade and Santa photos afterward. Santa and Mrs. Claus ride in the 10 a.m. parade and the photo window opens later, so you don't have to choose. Details: Dec 12; parade 10 a.m., Santa photos 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. (festival 9 a.m.–3 p.m.). Free.

Desert Ridge Marketplace Tree Lighting

Desert Ridge Marketplace Tree Lighting

21001 N Tatum Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050, USA

A Monday-night kickoff with music and holiday activities in The District. Santa helps light the tree, then heads over to the photo area. VIP packages are sold, but the public photos are free. Details: Nov 23; tree lighting 7:15 p.m., Santa photos 7:30–9 p.m. Free.

Tempe Marketplace Tree Lighting

Tempe Marketplace Tree Lighting

2000 E Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85288, USA

An easy plan for the night before Thanksgiving: free Santa photos in The District, then the tree lighting at 7. Details: Nov 25, 6–8 p.m.; Santa photos until 8. Free.

Kiwanis Christmas for the Kids

Kiwanis Christmas for the Kids

101 Easy St, Carefree, AZ 85377, USA

Santa and Mrs. Claus anchor a generous community day with animals, hayrides, games and treats, and all of it is free. It's the north Valley pick when you want more than a photo. Details: Nov 28, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Free.

Cotton Fest & Tree Lighting

6th St &, Monroe Ave, Buckeye, AZ 85326, USA

Buckeye's downtown holiday festival wraps up with free Santa photos at Sixth Street Plaza. Stay for the tree lighting, then head over for your turn. Details: Nov 28; festival 3–8 p.m., Santa photos 6–8 p.m. Free.

Fantasy of Lights Street Parade

Fantasy of Lights Street Parade

660 S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA

A parade-first evening on Mill Avenue. Santa's photo stop opens after the 6 p.m. parade, so the 4 p.m. festival start isn't your photo time. Details: Nov 28, 4–8 p.m.; parade 6 p.m., Santa photos afterward. Free.

Stroll in the Glow

Stroll in the Glow

E Ave of the Fountains, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268, USA

Santa arrives by fire truck before 6, then the evening carries on along the lit-up Avenue of the Fountains. The balloon glow at Fountain Park is a good reason to stay. Details: Dec 5, 5–8 p.m. Free event and Santa photos.

Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade

Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade

80 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA

Lit-up boats, live entertainment and a Santa photo stop at Tempe Beach Park. Pack a clear bag; the event enforces a clear-bag policy. Details: Dec 12, 4–9 p.m.; check Santa's hours at the event. Free entry.

Breakfast With Santa and Holiday Outings in Phoenix

Pick these when the outing matters as much as the photo: lights nights, farm festivals, a museum morning or a breakfast with Santa. Budget for everyone in the group, and check whether Santa is included or sold separately. Our Phoenix Christmas lights and holiday ice skating guides cover the rest of each night.

Santa at ZooLights

Santa at ZooLights

455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, USA

Book a Santa time, then give the rest of the night to the lit paths and the lake show. Think of it as a holiday lights outing rather than a normal zoo visit. Details: Santa Nov 25–Dec 23; ZooLights 5:30–10:30 p.m. $35 general, $30 members, 2 and under free; Santa photos extra and reserved separately. Sensory-friendly ZooLights runs Dec 8.

Sonoran Santa at Desert Botanical Garden

Sonoran Santa at Desert Botanical Garden

1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, USA

For a Santa photo that could only be taken in the desert, pick a night when Sonoran Santa and Mrs. Claus are at Las Noches de las Luminarias. Santa's there on just nine nights, so choose the date first. Details: Santa Nov 27–29 and Dec 18–23; Luminarias 5–9:30 p.m. Adults $39.95–$44.95, ages 2–17 $18.95; members pay less.

Christmas at the Princess

Christmas at the Princess

7575 E Princess Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, USA

The big-ticket Christmas outing. The evening Santa visit comes with caroling with Mrs. Claus and a digital photo, with the resort's lights and rides all around you. The private daytime Ultimate Santa Experience adds cookies, crafts and story time. Details: Nov 20–Dec 24. Festival admission plus the Santa visit; Ultimate Santa Experience $500, festival not included. One evening booking covers up to eight people; phone photos are fine. Parking extra.

Santa's Memory Workshop at Jingle at JW

Santa's Memory Workshop at Jingle at JW

5350 E Marriott Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA

Santa's study is packed with snow globes, which makes for a more elaborate portrait than a mall set. Personal photos aren't allowed, so pick a package with the images you want. Day visitors are welcome. Details: Nov 18–Dec 24; hours vary. Photo package required; one package covers several people. Jingle's other activities are separate, from $35. Cashless.

Desert Lights Festival

Desert Lights Festival

14629 W Peoria Ave, Waddell, AZ 85355, USA

The festival formerly called Desert Farm Lights is the West Valley's farm-style lights night, and Santa's there nightly from 5:30. The photo is included with admission and taken on your own phone. Details: Nightly from Nov 20, closed Christmas Day. $24.95, or $25.95 Dec 18–27; 2 and under free. Skating and wagon rides extra. Santa's line closes 45 minutes before the festival does.

Christmas Fest at Vertuccio Farms

Christmas Fest at Vertuccio Farms

4011 S Power Rd, Mesa, AZ 85212, USA

A farm night without resort prices. Santa joins the lights, animals and play areas on select nights. The Christmas lineup isn't the fall festival, so don't expect the train, corn maze or mega slide. Details: Santa Dec 4–6, 11–13 and 18–23; gates 5:30 p.m., close 9:30 p.m. Sun.–Thu. and 10 p.m. Fri.–Sat. $15 per person.

Christmas at Schnepf Farms

Christmas at Schnepf Farms

24810 S Rittenhouse Rd, Queen Creek, AZ 85142, USA

The bigger East Valley farm night, where Santa is one stop in an evening that also includes ice skating. The visit comes with admission, phone photos are fine, and leashed dogs are welcome. Details: Festival nights Nov 27–29; Dec 3–6, 10–13, 17–24 and 26–27; plan on Santa through Christmas Eve. $19.95–$27.95, 2 and under free; pro photos and the $10 Illumination Express extra.

Santa Visits & Snow Flurries at the Children's Museum of Phoenix

Santa Visits & Snow Flurries at the Children's Museum of Phoenix

215 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85034, USA

The pick for toddlers who won't last long in a line. Meet Santa, play in the indoor snow flurries, do a holiday project, then spend the rest of the day in the museum. Details: Dec 5–6; Santa 10 a.m.–noon and 12:30–2 p.m. Included with $19 admission; members and babies under 1 free. Free sensory-friendly evening with Santa Dec 6, 4:30–7:30 p.m., separate reservation.

Breakfast with Santa at HD SOUTH

Breakfast with Santa at HD SOUTH

10 S Gilbert Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85296, USA

A community morning with cookie decorating, ornament making, face painting and a visit with Santa. It's breakfast and activities for well under resort prices, and the ticket supports the museum. Details: Dec 5, 8:30–11 a.m. $20 per person; the youngest kids get free tickets. Reserve ahead.

Breakfast with Santa at Litchfield's

Breakfast with Santa at Litchfield's

300 E Wigwam Blvd, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340, USA

Book this when you want the breakfast itself to feel like the occasion. Breakfast at The Wigwam's restaurant comes with a visit from Santa and an elf-led reindeer adoption for the kids. Details: Dec 5–6, 12–13 and 19–20, 8–11 a.m. $50 adults, $30 ages 4–12, 3 and under free; tax and gratuity extra. Book Breakfast with Santa, not a regular breakfast reservation.

Pancakes & Pajamas with Santa

Pancakes & Pajamas with Santa

7135 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, USA

Grown-ups can wear pajamas too at this outdoor breakfast on the Marshall Way Bridge. Santa, music, crafts and a take-home gift make it a small occasion, and Old Town is right there afterward. Details: Dec 12, 9–10:30 a.m. $30 per person, adults included; tickets nonrefundable.

Breakfast with Accessible Santa

Breakfast with Accessible Santa

1802 W Parkside Ln, Phoenix, AZ 85027, USA

UCP's annual breakfast welcomes people of all ages and abilities for a Santa photo in an inclusive setting, with breakfast, cocoa and activities. It's a far calmer morning than a mall line. Details: Dec 5, 9–11 a.m. Free, with free parking. Register ahead.

Christmas Trains and Santa Road Trips

For kids who love trains. The first two are in town; the North Pole Experience and the Polar Express are separate trips to Flagstaff and Williams, so book the departure first and check road conditions before you leave.

Holiday Lights at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

Holiday Lights at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250, USA

The train ride is the draw, and Santa adds a stop on 11 nights. Every ticket includes the train and carousel, and it sells out, so book a Santa night early. Details: Santa Dec 1, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17 and 19–23; lights 5:30–9:30 p.m. $15 ages 3 and up, 2 and under free; members $5 off. Closed Dec 24–25.

Winter Wonderland Express at Enchanted Island

Winter Wonderland Express at Enchanted Island

1202 W Encanto Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85007, USA

Made for little kids who'll love the train and rides as much as Santa. He roams the park during the day instead of holding timed appointments. Details: Dec 12–13 and 19–20, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; photo area 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Free entry; Winter Wonderland ticket $15.50, unlimited rides $33.90, plus tax. Kids need a paying adult for the sledding and bounce area.

The North Pole Experience

The North Pole Experience

2515 E Butler Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, USA

Worth the drive when you want Santa to anchor a mountain weekend. Families leave from Little America for a workshop adventure that ends with a private family visit with Santa and a digital portrait. Details: Select dates Nov 20–Dec 24; about 100 minutes. From $50. Arrive 45 minutes before departure.

The Polar Express on Grand Canyon Railway

The Polar Express on Grand Canyon Railway

280 N Grand Canyon Blvd, Williams, AZ 86046, USA

The pick for kids who love trains and the story. Cocoa, cookies and Santa all come aboard during the roughly 90-minute round trip from Williams. Details: Select dates Nov 6–Dec 30; departures 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. Prices vary by date and age. Train-only bookings: arrive 90 minutes early. Request an accessible railcar at least seven days ahead.

Sensory-Friendly and Pet Santa Sessions

Quieter visits for families who'd do better with fewer distractions, and the sessions where the dog can join in. Book the named session rather than a regular Santa time, and keep pets leashed or in a carrier.

Sensory Santa at The Post

Sensory Santa at The Post

26 N Macdonald, Mesa, AZ 85201, USA

Mesa dims the lights, turns off the music and adds adaptive activities and letter writing around the visit. It's free, but register ahead; there's no signing up at the door. Details: Dec 5, 8 a.m.–noon. Free; advance registration through City of Mesa recreation.

Sensitive Santa at Surprise Stadium

Sensitive Santa at Surprise Stadium

15850 N Bullard Ave, Surprise, AZ 85374, USA

A private indoor visit with Santa for families of kids with autism and other sensory needs, with outdoor crafts while you wait. An ASL interpreter is there from 10 to noon. Details: Dec 12, 9 a.m.–3 p.m., closed noon–1 p.m. $5 registration guarantees a Santa visit; walk-ins aren't guaranteed one.

PlaceSessionWhen
Breakfast with Accessible SantaAccessible breakfastDec 5, 9–11 a.m.
Sensory Santa at The PostSensory-friendlyDec 5, 8 a.m.–noon
Children's Museum of PhoenixSensory-friendly eveningDec 6, 4:30–7:30 p.m.
Scottsdale Fashion SquareSensory-friendlyDec 6, 9–10:30 a.m.
Arrowhead Towne CenterSensory-friendlyDec 6, 9–10:30 a.m.
Biltmore Fashion ParkSensory-friendlyDec 6, 9–11 a.m.
Kierland CommonsSensory-friendlyDec 6, 9–10 a.m.
Chandler Fashion CenterSensory-friendlyDec 6, morning; book for exact time
Sensory Friendly ZooLightsSensory-friendly eveningDec 8, 5:30–10:30 p.m.
Sensitive SantaSensory-friendlyDec 12, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Old Town Scottsdale Farmers MarketPets welcomeNov 28; Dec 5, 12, 19, 9 a.m.–noon
SanTan VillagePets welcomeAny time Santa's in
Scottsdale Fashion SquarePet nightsMondays through Dec 14, 4–7 p.m.
Arrowhead Towne CenterPet nightsMondays through Dec 14, 4–7 p.m.
Chandler Fashion CenterPet nightsMondays Nov 16–Dec 14, 4–7 p.m.
Superstition Springs CenterPet nightsMondays Nov 16–Dec 14
Kierland CommonsPet nightsNov 30; Dec 7, 14, 4–7 p.m.
Biltmore Fashion ParkPet nightDec 7, 5–7 p.m. on Center Lawn
Every sensory-friendly and pet session in this guide. A pet session doesn't mean every store or attraction allows pets.

Tips for Planning Your Santa Visit

Make a Saturday of it in Old Town. Book your morning around the farmers market Santa window, then stay for lunch and a wander through Old Town Scottsdale.

Pick one big evening, not two. The Garden's Santa nights and a ZooLights portrait each need their own admission, and both run long. Choose one for visiting family and save the other for the lights alone.

A reservation doesn't mean no wait. Many bookings are arrival windows shared by several families, and Santa takes breaks. Leave a cushion before whatever comes next.

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Frequently asked questions

Where can we get a free Santa photo in Phoenix?
Bass Pro Shops in Mesa and Glendale includes a printed photo and video, and the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market includes a print on four Saturdays. Santa's House in Chandler and the Dec 12 Arizona Boardwalk fair offer free photos too. Westgate, PJs in the Park and Phoenix Premium Outlets let you take a free photo on your own phone. Most of these run on set dates, not daily.
Where can we have breakfast with Santa in Phoenix?
HD SOUTH in Gilbert has the lowest-priced ticketed breakfast at $20 on Dec 5. Litchfield's at The Wigwam runs Breakfast with Santa over three December weekends, and Pancakes & Pajamas on the Scottsdale Waterfront is Dec 12. UCP's Breakfast with Accessible Santa on Dec 5 is free.
Which Santa visit is best for a baby or toddler?
Keep it short and close to home: a Bass Pro reservation, the farmers market in the morning or one of the Children's Museum's two Santa windows on Dec 5–6. Enchanted Island suits toddlers who'll love the rides as much as Santa. A long lights evening can be wonderful, but plan it around naps and bedtime.
Which places have sensory-friendly Santa visits?
Mesa's Sensory Santa, UCP's Accessible Santa breakfast, Sensitive Santa in Surprise, the Children's Museum's Dec 6 evening and Sensory Friendly ZooLights on Dec 8 are all built for it. Several malls also run sensory sessions on the morning of Dec 6. Book the dedicated session and ask about lighting, lines and any support your family needs.
Can the dog come for Santa photos?
Yes at the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market, and at SanTan Village any time Santa's in, as long as pets are leashed or in a carrier. Other malls hold dedicated pet nights, mostly on Mondays. A pet session doesn't mean every store or attraction allows pets.
Can we see Santa after Christmas?
Rarely. Most Phoenix Santa visits end on Dec 23 or 24, even when the lights keep going into January. The Polar Express in Williams runs select dates through Dec 30, but that's a separate road trip.

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