When Is Santa Claus Coming To Watsonville?

Get ready, because Santa Claus is coming to Watsonville! 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 Watsonville area this year!

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

Heritage Holiday Craft and Gift Fair 2023

When: Dec. 1-2

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

What: Get into the holiday spirit at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds! This festive two-day event features over 125 vendors offering crafts, antiques and holiday gifts. Santa and Ms. Claus will make an appearance for photos, and attendees can enjoy holiday lights in the evenings. Click here for more info.

Santa Tour

When: Dec. 13-15
Where: Various locations throughout Watsonville
What: Santa and his special guests are going on tour! For three days, the big man in red will be stopping at various locations in Watsonville to spread holiday cheer. Maps for daily routes will be provided on the city website closer to the event dates. Click here for more info.

Holiday Tree Walk

When: Dec. 2-3, 9-10, 16-17
Where: Roaring Camp Railroads, Santa Cruz Boardwalk Beach Train, Santa Cruz, CA
What: Enjoy a Santa Cruz tradition with a ride on the Redwood Forest Steam Train. The vintage train cars are adorned with colorful lights, themed carriages and holiday sing-alongs. The whole family can sip hot cocoa and cider as they greet Santa Claus, followed by winter-themed activities once the train reaches Bear Mountain. Click here for more info.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Winter Wonderland

When: Operating days through Dec. 24
Where: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
What: Get in the holiday spirit and celebrate the season at the beach! In addition to boardwalk rides, games and arcades amidst festive holiday decorations and twinkling lights, photos with Santa are available on all operating days through Dec. 24. The Winter Wonderland Package includes a MyBoardwalk Card and a 6x8 printed photo with Santa. For a little more time with Kris Kringle, don’t miss out on some special events like a Movie with Santa (Dec. 3) and Brunch with Santa (Dec. 10). Click here for more info.

Happy holidays, Watsonville! Wishing you a joyful season filled with warmth and happiness.

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