As the holiday season unfolds in Tallahassee, families eagerly anticipate visits from Santa Claus. Here are some notable events and locations where you can meet Santa and immerse yourself in festive cheer:
1. Winter Festival – A Celebration of Lights, Music, and the Arts
Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Location: Downtown Tallahassee
Details: This annual festival transforms downtown into a holiday wonderland, featuring food vendors, arts and crafts, and sparkling holiday displays, including Candy Cane Lane in McCarty Park. The event also offers a children’s activity area on Kleman Plaza with family-friendly holiday movies from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The Lighting Ceremony takes place at 6:00 PM, followed by the Capital Health Plan Jingle Bell Run at 6:15 PM and the Nighttime Holiday Parade at 7:15 PM.
2. Elf Night at Dorothy B. Oven Park
Date: Thursday, December 19, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM
Location: Dorothy B. Oven Park, 3205 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32308
Details: Experience a winter wonderland adorned with over 150,000 twinkling lights. Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and their elves will be present to greet visitors. Guests can enjoy free cookies (while supplies last) and stroll through the beautifully decorated grounds. For safety reasons, vehicles are not permitted to drive through the park during the event; public parking is available at Thomasville Road Baptist Church.
3. Visits with Santa at Esposito Garden Center
Dates: Select dates from November 21 to December 24, 2024
Location: Esposito Garden Center, 2743 Capital Circle NE, Tallahassee, FL 32308
Details: Esposito’s offers scheduled visits with Santa Claus, providing a festive setting for children to share their holiday wishes. Specific dates and times are available on their website.
4. Photos with Santa at Governor’s Square Mall
Dates: November 27 to December 24, 2024
Location: Governor’s Square Mall, 1500 Apalachee Parkway, Tallahassee, FL 32301
Details: Capture memorable moments with Santa at Governor’s Square. Photo packages start at $39.99. Check the mall’s website for Santa’s daily hours and to make reservations.
5. Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops
Dates: November 6 to December 24, 2024
Location: Bass Pro Shops, 4059 Lagniappe Way, Tallahassee, FL 32317
Details: Enjoy a free photo with Santa and participate in festive activities at Santa’s Wonderland. Reservations are recommended to ensure a spot.
6. Soul Santa Events
Date: Saturday, December 16, 2024
Locations:
- Walker-Ford Community Center: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- LeVerne Payne Community Center: 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM
Details: Soul Santa and Mrs. Claus distribute free gifts to children up to age 10. Registration is required and begins on December 2 via Talgov.com.
These events offer wonderful opportunities for families in Tallahassee to meet Santa Claus and celebrate the holiday season. Be sure to check each event’s specific details and registration requirements to plan your festive outings accordingly.
