Where To See Santa In Newark This Christmas Season

NEWARK, CA — Santa Claus will be back in Newark 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 Newark, kids have several chances:

Kids can share their Christmas Wish List with Santa at the NewPark Mall, 2086 NewPark Mall in Newark during Pictures with Santa through Dec. 24 before he leaves to make his annual trip around the world delivering presents to all the good little girls and boys. Hours vary so be sure to visit the NewPark Mall website to schedule your little ones' visits with Santa.

Also at the NewPark Mall, On Sunday, Dec. 4, from 9- 10 a.m. Santa Cares Day will allow families with special needs children the opportunity to capture magical moments with Santa. Join Santa before the mall opens where children within all spectrums of special needs and their families are welcome to a sensory-friendly visit for fun family photos with Santa. Reservations can be made online for this free, fun-for-all event.

On Monday Dec. 5, kids will get another opportunity to meet with Jolly Old St. Nick during the city of Newark's annual Holiday Tree Lighting & Family Fun event at the Newark Civic Center, 37101 Newark Boulevard from 5:30-7 p.m. Featuring an evening full of free family fun, activities will include a photo booth, crafts and games, hot cocoa bar, and more.