Where to Spot Santa – And Snap a Photo! – Around Atlanta in 2023

Santa - phippsHe’s making a list, and he’s checking it twice – Santa Claus is coming to town! We’ve put together a list where you can be sure to spot Jolly Ol’ Saint Nick in 2023 and snap a picture with your family while finding some festive fun along the way. 

This year, a few new favorite spots have popped up in addition to Atlanta’s classic favorites. From Seaside Saint Nick at Georgia Aquarium to Stylish Santa at Buckhead Village, you’ll even spot Santa in some unexpected locations! Catch Santa illuminating extraordinary live trees, sip on hot cocoa as you sing holiday carols, and maybe even spot a few of his reindeer as you search your way through the city to catch the Big Guy in Red (or green!).

The holidays may rush by, but we’ve put our elves to work to help you find Santa no matter where you are in the city. So don’t miss out on seeing The Big Man in Red as he makes all his stops through Christmas Eve!

Happy Holidays!

Callanwolde Winter House
Santa Arrives: November 25th – December 10th
Santa will be making a special trip to the 27,000 square-foot historic mansion as it’s filled with laughter, holiday magic, activities, and workshops for all! He’s even ready to snap photos with all your family members – even the ones with four legs and fur. During your visit, cozy up next to a blazing fire in the Wine Bar and Beer Garden, and step outside to make s’mores by the outdoor fire pits as jazzy holiday tunes fill the air. Play classic board games in the library, build and decorate your very own gingerbread house, and be sure to explore the holiday artist market for that special gift this season! 

Botanical St. Nick
Santa Arrives: November 25th – December 16th
Botanical Saint Nick is making a list and checking it twice! Bring your camera and come meet the big guy adorned in green. Botanical Saint Nick

Holidays at Georgia Aquarium
Santa Arrives Through December 24th
No holiday season is complete without a snapshot with Santa! During your Aquarium visit, capture a photograph with Georgia Aquarium’s own seaside St. Nick. Santa is available for kids of all ages during scheduled dates and times through the holiday season. He can’t wait to hear all of your holiday wishes!

Light Up Brookhaven
Santa Arrives: December 6th
The evening is complete with activities for ages from 1 to 92!  Let’s welcome back the holiday spirit with the annual tree and menorah lighting, music, candy cane hunts, the snow hill, live reindeer, and more. 

Ponce City Market
Santa Arrives: Saturdays, December 2nd, 9th, 16th
Join along from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. for selfies with Santa on The Yard. No, The Grinch will not attend this year, but who needs him?! Families will enjoy yard games, falling snow, treats, and more!

Holiday Chastain
Santa Arrives: December 10th
From 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., the Chastain Park Playground  is transforming into a winter wonderland filled with festive fun! Bring your family and friends to enjoy Photos with Santa, hop in the Photobooth Bus for memorable snapshots, get creative with Cookie Decorating, have your face painted, and so much more. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season together.

Holidays in Decatur
Santa Arrives: November 25th
From visits with Santa to decorations and shopping, Decatur is the place to celebrate the holidays. Knock out your holiday shopping with special in-store events, discounts, and treats at over 20 shops, restaurants, and services. Participating shops will stay open late, offering a variety of festive fun! Enjoy snow, holiday carols, festive beverages and snacks, shop discounts, special offers, and more!

Buckhead Village
Santa Arrives: November 26th – December 17th
Each Saturday, enjoy an open-air dining and shopping experience for the whole family! Stylish Santa will be making his rounds throughout the area, so make sure you grab a picture with this one-of-a-kind Atlanta Santa.Stylish Santa

The Lighting of Colony Square
Santa Arrives: December 1st
This year, Season on the Square includes all the highlights of the original parade, but transformed into a full-day celebration – complete with a tree lighting on Friday evening and a visit from Santa himself! Friday’s holiday spectacular celebration features live music from A-Town A-List, festive photo opportunities, jolly entertainment, and more. And before all the excitement on Saturday, kick off the morning with a blend of two Children’s traditions – Breakfast with Santa and Smiles for the Season.

Lenox Square
Santa Arrives Through December 24th
Make a reservation to see Santa this holiday season! Families can have a memorable keepsake photo taken with Santa at Lenox Square Mall. This year’s event features reserved dates for Pet Photos with Santa on December 10th and a private photo experience with Caring Santa on December 3rd – Be sure to save your spot!

Phipps Plaza
Santa Arrives Through December 24th
Photos with Santa at Phipps are so popular, tickets sell out each year! This year, the set has been modified for families to have the option of children sitting with Santa or on a separate bench. Commemorative gifts will be available for purchase to honor this special visit!

Rhodes Hall
Weekends Through December 16th
Come celebrate 25 wonderful years! Feel like skipping the malls this holiday season? On weekends through December 11th, your family can enjoy a special photo session with Santa at “The Castle on Peachtree.” Rhodes Hall will be transformed into a beautiful winter wonderland, complete with personal appointments with Santa!