The enchantment of the holiday season is in full swing! Discover where Santa will be making merry across Sarasota. From photo ops to magical experiences, don’t miss out on these festive encounters with the man in red.
For more information on Uncovering Sarasota’s Spectacular Holiday Celebrations! follow our blog.
Santa’s Flight Academy
- 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.
27th Annual Sarasota Holiday Parade
- 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.
Santa at Main Street Lakewood Ranch
- 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.
Breakfast with Santa at The Grove
- 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.
Pictures With Santa at Waterside Place
- 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.
North Pole Express
- 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.
Santa Visits South Siesta Key at Daiquiri Deck
- 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.
5th Annual Holiday Celebration at Ellenton Premium Outlets
- 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.
Breakfast with Santa on The Bay
- 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.
Joyful Thursdays in Paradise on Bridge Street
- 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.
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Looking to join in the festive fun in Sarasota this holiday season? Whether it’s capturing magical moments with Santa or exploring joyful celebrations, there’s something for everyone. And when you’re ready to make Sarasota your home for these fantastic celebrations, Sarasota Neighborhood Experts are here to help you find the perfect place. Reach out to us today and let’s make your holiday dreams a reality!
