When the holiday season comes around, there’s nothing better than seeing your child’s face light up at the sight of Santa. Sure, a picture from your visit with a mall Santa keeps the memories fresh, but chances are you’ll wait in line for a loooong time before your big moment arrives. Make your visit with Santa special this year with a meet-and-greet experience that’ll also have your little one believing in the spirit of Christmas.
Places in Pittsburgh to Meet Santa Claus
Santa’s House
Heinz Hall Courtyard, November 21-December 24
Visit with either a white or black Santa this season for some one-on-one time with the big man. Enter Santa’s brightly colored house to tell him what you want this Christmas and get a printed photo for a donation to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. Several clever selfie stations are on offer, too, so you and the kids can have fun beyond you big Santa moment.
Santa Fun Cruise
The Gateway Clipper Fleet, Saturdays and Sundays in December
Book a special cruise along the Three Rivers that includes a meet and greet with Santa. After the kids have met Santa and received a treat from him, they can pass the afternoon with a holiday DJ dance party.
Saturdays with Santa
Heinz History Center, Saturdays in December
Kids 17 and under can get into the museum and meet Santa for free without the long lines at the mall. While you’re there, check out their Pittsburgh-based displays like their exhibit on Mister Rodgers’ Neighborhood.
AWCommunity Day Holiday Edition
August Wilson African American Cultural Center, December 13
Learn about the traditions of Kwanzaa with hands-on activities and live entertainment from various theater, drum, and dance groups. Parents can browse the artisan market while the kids get to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Santa Photos
The Waterfront, December 2-21
Rather than wait in a long line that never seems to end, make a reservation to get photos with Santa at The Waterfront. Walk-ins are still welcomed and after your photo is taken, you can take in the shops around the circle for any last-minute gifting.
Breakfast or Lunch with Santa
Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium, Saturdays and Sundays in December
For a few select dates in December, your little ones have the chance to have breakfast or lunch with the big man himself. Besides meeting Santa, you’ll also meet animal ambassadors and write a letter to Santa to deliver yourself right inside the zoo.
Santa Trolley
PA Trolley Museum, Saturdays and Sundays in December
Meeting Santa is cool but meeting and chatting with Santa while on a trolley is even cooler! Each special day at the PA Trolley Museum invites you to take a ride on one of their antique streetcars to meet the big man. Afterwards, explore interactive exhibits, train and LEGO displays, plus enjoy hot chocolate and cookies too.
Season’s Greetings Saturdays
National Aviary, Saturdays in December
On most Saturdays in December, you’ll find The Grinch taking over Santa’s spot at the National Aviary. Saturday, December 6 is your one chance to meet Santa but otherwise you’ll get the chance to see The Grinch come to life. Take pictures with him in his Santa suit and also say hello to his skunk and owl animal friends.
PGH Santa Claus on Cameo
Online
Sometimes, a short, personalized video is just the thing to bring the holiday magic to your child. On top of home visits, PGH Santa Claus also offers a Cameo option. This allows you to customize a video around a minute in length to have Santa send your child their own message, sing a carol, or simply just say hello to the whole family.
Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo courtesy of PGH Santa Claus
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