When Is Santa Claus Coming To Albany?

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

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

New York State Tree Lighting and Fireworks Festival

When: Sunday, Dec. 3

Where: Empire State Plaza, 100 S Mall Arterial, Albany, NY 12242

What: Experience the magic of the holiday season at Empire State Plaza with a variety of free activities for all ages, from live performances to open skating sessions at the rink. The celebration, running from 12:00-8:00 p.m., includes the official tree lighting ceremony, spectacular fireworks and performances by Tuba Christmas. Don't miss the chance for photo opportunities with Santa Claus at Cornerstone at the Plaza, along with warming areas and holiday concessions. Click here for more info.

Dave & Buster’s Breakfast with Santa

When: Saturday, Dec. 9
Where: Dave and Buster's, 1 Crossgate Mall Road, Albany NY 12203
What: Santa Claus is coming to Dave and Buster’s! Enjoy an American Breakfast buffet, a $10 Power Card® with unlimited video game play and a personal photo opportunity with Santa. Tickets for this unique event can be purchased online for $31.85; children under the age of 2 only need a ticket if they wish to partake in brunch and games. Click here for more info.

Santa’s Magical Express

When: Saturday, Dec. 9 and Saturday, Dec. 16
Where: Crossgates Mall, 1 Crossgates Mall Road, Albany (Guilderland), NY 12203
What: Santa’s Magical Express is taking off from Albany — with a little help from you! In this immersive show, Santa Claus must find his stolen hat to save Christmas. Embark on one of two show types: the 60-minute limited version at Crossgates, and the 100-minute full theatrical version at Yankee Trails in nearby Rensselaer. Click here for more info.

Wintertime Wonderland

When: Thursdays-Sundays, now through Saturday, Dec. 23
Where: VIA Port Rotterdam, 93 West Campbell Road, Rotterdam, NY, 12306
What: Delight in the festive spirit at Wintertime Wonderland, the Capital Region's largest indoor Christmas event that's just a half hour out from Albany. Set in a holiday-themed, family-friendly North Pole environment, this attraction offers an enchanting experience with special shows and numerous activities, including a sneak peek at Santa’s workshop and pictures with the man in red himself. Click here for more info.

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

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