2023 Santa Sightings Around Sarasota

Where: Mall at UTC, 140 University Town Center Drive, Sarasota, FL, 34243 | 941-552-7000

When: November 9 – December 24 | Hours vary, strongly recommend reservations for photo sessions. Walkups welcome.

Details: Dive into the holiday magic at Santa’s Flight Academy! Step inside Santa’s 22-foot tall sleigh, experience enchanting snowfall, and meet Santa in this interactive experience.

Where: Main Street, Sarasota, FL, 34237

When: December 2, 2023 | from 7 pm to 9 pm,

Admission: FREE

Details: Sarasota’s holiday season kickoff! Witness 4000 participants, illuminated floats, high school marching bands, and the iconic appearance of Santa Claus at this beloved holiday event. Free admission for all in Sarasota’s Main Street area.

Where: Main Street at Lakewood Ranch, 8100 Lakewood Main St., Lakewood Ranch, FL, 34202

When: Tuesdays & Thursdays, December 5-21, 2023 (Except Dec 7), 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Admission: FREE

Details: Experience the holiday spirit on Main Street! Enjoy festive lighting displays and meet Santa for photos at the Christmas tree. Santa will spread joy and laughter, except on Dec 7, offering free photo sessions from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays in Lakewood Ranch.

Where: 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch, FL, 34202

When: December 9-10, 2023 | 9 am

Tickets: $50 per adult, $30 per child (under 10), plus tax.

Details: Dive into the most magical breakfast of the year! Join in for a wonderful breakfast experience with Santa at the Grove Restaurant on December 9th and 10th starting at 9 am.  For further details, contact (941) 893-4321.

Where: Waterside Place, 1561 Lakefront Drive, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240

When: December 6, 13 & 20, 2023 | 6 pm – 9 pm

Admission: FREE

Details: Capture a moment with Santa at the Plaza during Ranch Nite Wednesdays at Waterside Place! Head to Waterside Place on December 6th, 13th, and 20th between 6 pm and 9 pm.

Where: Florida Railroad Museum, 12210 83rd St East, Parrish, FL, 34219

When: November 30, December 1-3, 6-10, 13-17, 20-21 | 5:15 pm and 7:15 pm

Admission: Tickets start at $21

Details: Experience the North Pole Express for a 30-minute ride from Parrish, FL to the North Pole. Enjoy entertainment, activities, Santa visits, campfires, and endless hot chocolate and cookies upon arrival. Additional food and beverages are available for purchase.

Where: 1250 Stickney Point Road, Siesta Key, FL, 34242

When: December 17, 2023 | 3 pm – 5 pm

Admission: FREE

Details: Join Santa Claus for a visit to South Siesta Key at Daiquiri Deck! Kids can meet Santa, take photos, and each child will receive a small gift.

Where: Ellenton Premium Outlets – Manatee Court 5461 Factory Shops Blvd., Ellenton, FL

When: December 9, 2023 |  3 pm – 7 pm

Admission: FREE

Details: Embrace the enchantment of the holiday season at the 5th Annual Holiday Celebration! Join in on Saturday, December 9th, from 3 pm to 7 pm at the Ellenton Premium Outlets. Enjoy festive activities and magic in a joyful celebration.

Where: Ritz-Carlton, 1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Sarasota, FL, 34236

When: December 9, 2023 | 9 am – 12 pm

Tickets:  $65 per adult and $30 per child (12 and under).

Details: Experience breakfast with Santa himself! Delight in a fun and interactive morning for children and families. Held at the Ritz-Carlton from 9 am to 12 pm on December 9, Contact 941-309-2401 or [email protected] for more information.

Where: Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL

When: December 7-28, 2023 | 3 pm – 9 pm

Admission: FREE

Details: Enjoy the festive vibes every Thursday evening in December on Bridge Street! Explore holiday shopping, dine with family and friends, savor live music, and seize the chance to have your family photo taken with Santa. Santa will be available for photos and appearances from December 7th to 28th between 3 pm and 9 pm. This event is free and promises an evening filled with joyous celebrations.