When Is Santa Claus Coming To Gary?

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

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

Tree Lighting and Family Night

When: Friday, Dec. 1
Where: Dean and Barbara White Community Center - 6600 Broadway; Merrillville, IN 46410
What: Head over to Merrillville for a Tree Lighting Ceremony and Family Night from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Santa and Mrs. Claus will make a grand entrance with the Merrillville Fire Department, and attendees can enjoy hot chocolate as Santa lights the town's tree. Inside, there will be opportunities to meet Santa, take pictures and enjoy treats, along with a tree decorating contest involving Merrillville's elementary schools. Click here for more info.

Photos with Santa

When: Select dates Nov. 25 - Dec. 23 (see website for times)
Where: Indiana Welcome Center - 7770 Corinne Drive; Hammond, IL 46323
What: While the “A Christmas Story” Comes Home exhibit is at the Indiana Welcome Center in nearby Hammond, visit Santa on Santa's Mountain like in the classic movie. Get a photo taken with Santa and enjoy a slide down the big red slide. Appointments cost $10 each, including one printed photo, with the option to purchase additional photos for $6 each. Click here for more info.

Santa’s Wonderland at Cabela’s

When: Nov. 5 - Dec. 24 (see calendar for times)
Where: Cabela’s Hammond - 7700 Cabela Drive; Hammond, IN 46324
What: Down the road in Hammond, experience the magic of Santa’s Wonderland at Cabela’s! Mail out letters to the North Pole, visit the Christmas toy shop and get a free picture with Kris Kringle himself. You’ll need to reserve your time slot for this popular event. Click here for more info.

Photos With Santa

When: Select dates Nov. 17 - Dec. 24 (see website for times)
Where: Southlake Mall - 2109 Southlake Mall; Merrillville, IN 46410
What: Meet Santa at Southlake Mall this holiday season. To take a photo and share your wishlist with Santa it's recommended to book a reservation in advance with a $25 deposit, which can be used towards photo purchases. Walk-ins are allowed if space permits but are not guaranteed. Click here for more info.

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

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