Santa Sightings | Where to Find Santa Claus This Holiday Season!

Ho Ho Ho! Santa Claus is coming to town! A truly magical time in the Lake Pepin area, and one of the biggest highlights for local and visiting kids! From festive tree lighting ceremonies to cozy holiday markets, there are countless places to catch a glimpse of Santa this November and December!

While we understand that these experiences are posted on social media, websites and printed flyers, Go Lake Pepin is here to provide you with the Lake Pepin area’s only guide to “Santa Sightings!” A guide that not only covers when and where to meet Santa, the types of activities offered, and whether any reservations are required. Additionally, you will see rare opportunities for additional holiday characters like the Grinch and Mrs. Claus. Whether you’re looking for free events or are open to a small admission fee, you’ll find something here for everyone.

Santa Claus Is Coming to Town!

Lake Pepin celebrates the season in style, and Santa’s appearances are no exception! Often accompanied by Mrs. Claus, who loves to hear Christmas wishes, and the mischievous Grinch, who brings humor to the festivities, Santa is sure to bring holiday cheer wherever he goes.

In addition to photo opportunities with Santa Clause, many events include activities like festive storytelling, hot cocoa stations, and ornament-making. Some events are scheduled at specific times, while others are come-and-go, offering options for families with different schedules.

Here’s a look at some of the types of Santa Claus experiences you will find:

These festive markets offer a wonderful opportunity to get a photo with Santa, shop for holiday gifts, and enjoy live music. Many of these are free and likely have access to specific activities.
Bring the whole family to witness the lighting of holiday trees throughout Lake Pepin’s charming villages in Minnesota and Wisconsin! Santa typically makes an entrance during these events—sometimes by fire truck—adding excitement to an already magical evening!
Local eateries, organizations and community centers host a “Breakfast with Santa,” where families can enjoy pancakes, eggs, and more while visiting with Santa. These events may be ticketed and/or require advance reservations due to their popularity.
Watch children’s eyes light up as Santa rolls by in the region’s annual holiday parades. These festive parades provide a memorable setting for families to enjoy a glimpse of Santa Claus from the sidewalk, soaking in the magic of the season!
Santa also makes appearances at pop-up events in local stores, markets and so forth. A quick hello, a sit on his lap and a photograph by parents or even a professional photographer, make these meet and greets memorable.

Ready to find the perfect Santa experience?

We’ve put together a comprehensive list to help you plan your visit (and yes, be sure to check it twice—wink, wink!). And don’t forget to check back frequently—this list will grow as more exciting events are added throughout the holiday season.

Santa Sightings 2024

Sunday, November 24, 2024

Santa & Pet Photos Fundraiser Event (11 am - 2 pm) at Pier 55 Area Seniors, Red Wing, MN

Friday, November 29, 2024

Red Wing Holiday Stroll, Downtown Red Wing, MN

Meet & Greet: Photos with Santa at the Sheldon Theatre (3:30 - 6:30 pm)
See from Afar: Santa will be at the end of the lighted parade (7:30 pm)

Friday, November 29, 2024

Arkansaw Creek Park Christmas Lighting at Arkansaw, WI

Meet & Greet: Santa! (6 pm) at the Arkansaw Park Shelter

Friday, November 29 + Saturday, November 30, 2024

Light up the Fair Free Community Event Nights at Pierce County Fair & Fairgrounds, Ellsworth, WI

Visits from Santa & Mrs. Claus each night!

Saturday, November 30, 2024

Durand Dazzle Day, Durand, WI

Meet & Greet: Santa & Mrs. Claus (11 am - 1 pm) at Ho Ho Ho Craft Show (9 am - 2 pm) at Durand High School

Storytime with Santa & Mrs. Claus (3 - 5 pm) at City Hall Community Room
See from Afar: Santa will be at the end of the lighted parade (6 pm) at downtown

Saturday, November 30, 2024

Light Up Lake City (4 - 6 pm) at Patton Park, Lake City, MN

Santa Parade: Watch Santa go around town on the Fire Truck (4 pm)
Meet & Greet: Santa will be at Patton Park for the Tree Lighting (5 - 6 pm)

Saturday, November 30, 2024

Photos with Santa (9 am - Noon) at Tootsie Too’s, Red Wing, MN

Meet & Greet: Santa + Photographer (*Reservations Required)

Saturday, November 30 + Sunday, December 1, 2024

Villa Bellezza Outdoor Christmas Market at Villa Bellezza Winery, Pepin, WI

Meet & Greet: Santa (Arrives daily at 1 pm)

Saturday, December 1, 2024

Kids with Santa (11 am - 1 pm) at Downsville Community Museum, Downsville, WI

Meet & Greet: Santa (11 am - 1 pm)

Friday, December 6 + Saturday, December 7, 2024

Light up the Fair Free Community Event Nights at Pierce County Fair & Fairgrounds, Ellsworth, WI

Visits from Santa & Mrs. Claus each night!