Where to Meet Santa in the East Bay This Holiday Season
The holiday season is here, and you know what that means — Santa is making his way across the East Bay! Whether you want a memorable photo with your kids, a festive outing with the family, or just some holiday cheer, here’s a guide to the best places to find Santa in the East Bay this season.
Santa Photo Experience at Stoneridge - Nov 10th – Dec 24th, 2023
For a classic Santa experience, head to Stoneridge Mall in Pleasanton, where Santa is ready to meet kids of all ages. From November 10 through Christmas Eve, families can take traditional holiday photos with Santa, bring pets for festive pictures, and even schedule private sessions for children with special needs through the Caring Santa program. Don’t forget to reserve your time to make sure you get your moment with Santa!
Address: 1 Stoneridge Mall Rd. Pleasanton, CA 94588 | Visit Website
Christmasville Santa Claus Photos, Emeryville - Nov 3rd – Dec 17th, 2023
Experience a magical Santa encounter at Christmasville in Emeryville, where you and your family can enjoy a private North Pole-themed photo session with professional photography provided by Leah Marie Studio. Professional photography captures every joyful moment with Santa, and session add-ons include cookie decorating or holiday props. Santa Steve and Santa Solas are available at select times on weekends for this festive East Bay tradition.
Address: 1311 61st StEmeryville, CA 94608 | Visit Website
Fresh Cut Christmas Trees - Nov 26th, Dec 2nd, Dec 10th, 2023
Combine your Christmas tree shopping with a visit to Santa! The Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton will host Fresh Cut Christmas Trees from Oregon, featuring a variety of firs. On select dates — November 26, December 2, and December 10 — Santa will be onsite to greet families and spread holiday cheer.
Address: 2005 Valley Avenue, Pleasanton, CA 94566 | Visit Website
Santa Lights the Square - Nov 24th, 2023
Head to Ghirardelli Square for a spectacular evening where Santa officially lights up the square! Enjoy holiday music performed by the SF Boys Chorus and meet Santa afterward for a photo. This festive East Bay-adjacent tradition is perfect for families looking to celebrate the season.
Address: 900 North Point St E204A, San Francisco, CA 94109 | Visit Website
Holiday Parade of Lights & Tree Lighting - Nov 30th, 2023
Kick off the season at Walnut Creek’s Broadway Plaza, where Santa leads the Parade of Lights and lights the holiday tree. Enjoy music, refreshments, and a fun-filled evening with Santa to mark the start of a festive East Bay holiday season.
Address: 1275 Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 | Visit Website
Magical Holiday Evening in Downtown Pleasanton - Dec 1st, 2023
Downtown Pleasanton hosts its Holiday Open House on December 1st from 4-7PM. Families can stroll Main Street, enjoy live music, shopping specials, and take photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus at the Museum on Main. It’s a perfect East Bay tradition for kids and adults alike.
Address: Pleasanton, CA 94566 | Visit Website
Hometown Holiday Celebration - Dec 2nd, 2023
The Hometown Holiday Celebration in Pleasanton features a parade, tree lighting, and a special visit from Santa! Festivities at the Veterans Memorial Building start in the evening, including musical entertainment, mayor-led tree lighting, and a chance for families to snap holiday photos with Santa.
Address: Pleasanton, CA 94566 | Visit Website
Breakfast with Santa - Dec 9th, 2023
Enjoy a delicious breakfast and meet Santa in Alameda! Children can participate in arts & crafts and hear a story read by Santa himself at 11:15 AM. Reservations are required to secure your spot at this family-friendly East Bay tradition.
Address: Albert H. DeWitt O'Club, 641 West Redline Avenue, Alameda, 94501 | Visit Website
Santa Claus Photos at Alameda South Shore Center - Nov 24th – Dec 24th, 2023
Get your holiday portraits with Santa daily at Alameda South Shore Center. From November 24 through Christmas Eve (excluding Thanksgiving), families can enjoy pet-friendly photos and festive giveaways with Santa, making it a must-visit East Bay holiday stop.
Address: 523 South Shore Center West, Alameda, CA 94501 | Visit Website
No matter where you are in the East Bay, there are countless opportunities to see Santa this holiday season. From Downtown Pleasanton to Walnut Creek and Alameda, these festive events allow families to celebrate, take photos, and create lasting holiday memories with Santa. Be sure to plan ahead and secure your spot — Santa is ready and waiting across the East Bay!
