Santa Sighting 2024  

There’s something undeniably magical about the sparkle in a child’s eye when they spot Santa Claus. Thankfully, the jolly fellow took time off from his December schedule to visit us in many different places throughout Billings, helping our community create memories to last a lifetime. From photo opportunities to festive gatherings and events, there’s something for everyone to immerse themselves in the warmth and joy of the Christmas Season. Here’s where to find Santa (and more) in Billings this year: 

PHOTO OPS 

Santa’s Wonderland 

Location: Cabela’s, 4550 King Ave E 

Details: Ongoing through December 24 

Enjoy a free 4x6 photo, a shareable video with Santa, and a chance to send your letter to the North Pole. Reserve your spot early! 


Free Santa Photos @ Western Ranch Supply 

Location: 7305 Entryway Dr 

Details: December 7, 11am-2pm 

Bring the family, pets included, for complimentary photos with Santa at the Billings West End location. 


Photos with Santa @ Scheels 

Location: 1121 Shiloh Crossing Blvd 

Details: December 7 & 8, 10am-4pm 

Join us for a magical opportunity to meet and take photos with Santa! Be sure to bring your own camera for any photos with Santa! 


Santa Saturdays @ Roots Garden Center 

Location: 2147 Poly Dr 

Details: December 7, 14, 21, 10am-2pm 

Come take a photo with Santa and enjoy his Toy Shop.  


2nd Annual Festival of Light 

Location: Sacred Grounds Healing & Art Studio, 2950 King Ave. West 

Details: December 14, 10am-6pm 

Experience the magic as Father Christmas welcomes you into this enchanting shopping experience. Don’t miss the handcrafted espresso and tea from The Coffee Denn. 


Photos With Santa Paws  

Location: Dee-O-Gee BLGS 

Details: December 8, 10am-2pm  

A photographer will be capturing photos of your pets with Santa Paws, with the opportunity to use festive props.  

SPEND TIME WITH SANTA 

Small Business Saturday with Santa 

Location: The Maker’s Market 

Details: November 30, 9am 

Start your holiday season by visiting Santa while exploring unique handmade gifts and supporting local artisans. 


Santa @ Holiday Nights 

Location: ZooMontana, 2100 Shiloh Rd 

Details: Ongoing through December 23 

Santa, along with Mrs. Claus in her craft room, awaits you at this magical event full of lights and festive fun. With the opportunity to drop letters off to Santa.


Write Letters to Santa Night @ Holiday Nights 

Location: ZooMontana, 2100 Shiloh Rd 

Details: December 1, 5-9pm 

Kids can write and mail letters to Santa in a magical setting. 


Playapalooza Holiday Party 

Location: Western Heritage Center, 2822 Montana Ave 

Details: December 7, 10am-2pm 

Join in on games, crafts, snacks, and a special visit from Santa. 


Holiday Block Party 

Location: The Shops at Shiloh Crossing 

Details: December 14, 10am 

Celebrate with Santa, The Grinch, a hot cocoa bar, cookie decorating, and shopping specials. 


Santa in the District 

Location: Lockwood Rural Fire District #8 

Details: December 14, 8am-12pm 

Santa, Mrs. Claus, and The Grinch will visit multiple stops, spreading joy and handing out gift bags to the first 400 children. 


First Friday Holiday Stroll 2024 

Location: Skypoint & Downtown Billings 

Details: December 6, 5-9pm 

Kick off the holiday season with an evening of dining, shopping specials, live entertainment, and free photos with Santa. Stroll the Billings ArtWalk and enjoy the festive atmosphere with family and friends. 


Breakfast With Santa

Location: Don Luis Restaurant

Details: December 15, 8-12pm 

Santa is stopping and enjoying a delicious breakfast buffet, hot cocoa, crafts, and kids can drop off their letters to Santa. 


39th Annual Festival of Trees 

Location: Montana Pavilion at MetraPark 

Details: December 5, 5pm-9pm, December 6, 8am-9pm, December 7, 10am-6pm  

Throughout this 3-day event, we have a variety of events from a gala & auction, tea in the trees, Santa, family fun carnival, gift boutique, food trucks, and entertainment that includes a magic show, local choral, and dance groups. The festival supports children and families in need across Yellowstone County. 

Visiting Santa is more than just a Christmas tradition; it’s a way for kids to believe in the magic of the season and share in the joy that makes this time of year so special. Make these events part of your family's holiday memories, and let the spirit of Christmas fill your hearts. 

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