Where To See Santa In Alameda This Christmas Season

ALAMADA, CA — Santa Claus will be back in Alameda this holiday season after a couple of years of COVID-19 restrictions that made it difficult for kids to crawl up on his lap and make their case that they’ve been good boys and girls over the last year.

Visits and pictures with Santa are at the heart of many families’ holiday traditions, but the coronavirus pandemic gave them a lump of coal. Malls and other places took social distancing measures in both 2020 and 2021 to help contain the spread of the virus, moving Santa meet-ups largely online.

Virtual visits are still an option in many places, but there’s nothing quite like seeing jolly old St. Nick live and in person. In Alameda, kids have several chances:

Now through Dec. 24, kids can visit Santa daily at the South Shore Center, 523 Mulberry Street in Alameda in his new home located near Modern Mouse across from the Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter. Kids visiting with the jolly old elf on Tuesdays will receive a free gift, specially selected for them by the big guy himself while supplies last.

On Dec. 10 kids can have a unique experience by sharing a meal with Kris Kringle during Breakfast with Santa at the Albert H. DeWitt O’Club, 641 West Redline Avenue in Alameda. Preregistration is required for this breakfast, crafts, storytime, and photo experience.

Also on Saturday, Dec. 10, Santa will make a special appearance at Alameda Landing, 2600 Fifth Street in Alameda, during the annual Holiday Celebration event from 2-4 p.m. This free event features artist elves providing arm painting and balloon twisting as well as holiday-themed carolers and holiday treats, while supplies last. Kids will have the chance to share their Christmas wish list and take a photo with Santa. No pre-registration is required.

Those in Alameda looking for some special one on one time with Santa Claus have the opportunity to do just that with the city of Alameda's Santa Home visits.

As part of this unique program, Santa, Rudolph and the Elves will be coming to Alameda Dec. 17 and 18 to make special 10-minute visits to resident's Alameda homes where children can share their holiday wishes with Santa. Each child will receive a candy cane from Santa and arrangements can be made to have Santa deliver a gift which parents provide for their kids. While Santa will only conduct visits on front porches and outside, families can take their own socially-distanced pictures with Santa.

"Santa is very busy this time of year so he may not be able to visit your home at your preferred date and time," The city of Alameda said, adding that if Santa visits a large party, it may not be possible for him to speak with every child.

To set up a visit to your home with Santa, send an email ARPD Staff who will contact Santa directly to schedule the visit.