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.