When Is Santa Claus Coming To Capitola-Soquel?

Get ready, because Santa Claus is coming to Capitola-Soquel! This holiday season, the man in red is spreading holiday joy all over town. So get those wishlists ready, be on your best behavior (Santa knows if you've been bad or good!) and mark your calendar. Here's when and where you can catch Santa in the Capitola-Soquel area this year!

Please note: Event dates are subject to change or cancellation. We recommend calling ahead to confirm and making reservations when possible.

Downtown Santa Cruz: Holiday Parade

When: Saturday, Dec. 2

Where: Downtown Santa Cruz, Pacific Avenue Between Water and Locust Streets, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

What: The traditional Holiday Parade is a spirited kickoff to the winter holidays in nearby Santa Cruz. Join the entire community for a joyful celebration filled with surprises, music and an appearance by the man of the season, Santa Claus! Rain or shine, gather your family to enjoy the festive procession, starting at the intersection of Laurel Street and Pacific Avenue and ending at the intersection of Pacific Avenue and Water Street. Click here for more info.

Winter On The Wharf

When: Saturday, Dec. 16
Where: Santa Cruz Wharf, 21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
What: The Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation, along with the Santa Cruz Police and Fire Departments, are hosting the Winter on the Wharf event where attendees can delight in festive decorations, special Wharf offerings and catch the arrival of Santa Claus aboard a vintage fire engine! Snap memorable photos with Santa from 2:30-4:30 p.m., revel in the snow area with Elsa and Anna from Disney's “Frozen,” enjoy custom balloon designs, face painting and tinsel hair styling. Participate in the charitable spirit by bringing an unwrapped toy or canned food item for donation to Toys for Tots and Second Harvest Food Bank and receive a limited-edition event sticker. Click here for more info.

Holiday Tree Walk

When: Nov. 24-26, Dec. 2-3, Dec. 9-10, Dec. 16-17

Where: Redwood Forest Steam Train, Bear Mountain, 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA 95018

What: Down the road in Felton, hop aboard the Redwood Forest Steam Train and journey through the enchanting wintry redwoods to Bear Mountain. As you ride, savor hot cider and anticipate the arrival of Santa Claus. Upon your return, partake in delightful winter-themed activities that capture the essence of the season. Click here for more info.

Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds: Holiday Lights

When: Nov. 24-26, Dec. 2-3 (walk-through only), Dec. 7-10, Dec. 14-17, Dec. 21-24

Where: Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Avenue, Watsonville, CA 95076

What: Experience the magic of the season at Holiday Lights, a captivating drive-through extravaganza at the nearby Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds. Revel in over a half-mile of dazzling, twinkling displays featuring giant Christmas trees, Santa Claus, playful reindeer, snowmen, enchanting lighted tunnels and more, creating a wondrous holiday spectacle. Stay snug in your car as you navigate this festive wonderland or opt for a walk-through experience on Dec. 2 and 3! Click here for more info.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Winter Wonderland

When: Nov. 23-26, Dec. 2-3, Dec. 9-10, Dec. 16-31
Where: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
What: Delight in a selection of boardwalk rides, festive decorations and the glow of a towering Christmas tree at this year’s Winter Wonderland 10 minutes down the road in Santa Cruz. Capture cherished moments with Santa Claus, enjoy holiday treats and indulge in the warmth of a crackling fire pit with delectable s'mores. Additionally, revel in the unique shopping opportunities while relishing the breathtaking view of the beach. Click here for more info.

Happy holidays, Capitola-Soquel! Wishing you a joyful season filled with warmth and happiness.

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