This post is sponsored and contributed by Patch Holiday, a Patch Brand Partner.

Seasonal & Holidays

When Is Santa Claus Coming To Columbus?

Find out when and where to see Jolly Old St. Nick this holiday season.

You better watch out. You better not pout. Santa Claus is coming to Columbus! Here's where to find him.
You better watch out. You better not pout. Santa Claus is coming to Columbus! Here's where to find him. (Shutterstock)

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

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


Breakfast with Santa

When: Sunday, Dec. 10
Where: Garage Insurance Audubon Center - 505 W. Whittier Street; Columbus, OH 43215
What: Join the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio for the annual Breakfast with Santa from 9-11 a.m. This holiday-themed event offers individual holiday crafts, storytime, professional photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus and a delicious breakfast. Children will receive personalized gifts, explore a life-sized gingerbread house and enjoy immersive holiday activities, including a silent auction shop featuring various holiday gifts. Click here for more info.

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Santa at Wildlights 2023

When: Nov. 17 - Dec. 23 (see website for times)
Where: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium - 4850 W. Powell Road; Powell, OH 43065
What: Celebrate the 35th Anniversary of Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, one of Ohio's favorite holiday traditions. Enjoy millions of LED lights, animated musical light shows and festive activities. Admission is included with your zoo admission or membership, and you can chat with Santa and take photos with him in the Polar Frontier Region at the Battelle Ice Bear Outpost. Click here for more info.


Santa’s Wonderland at Cabela’s

When: Nov. 5 - Dec. 24 (see calendar for times)
Where: Cabela’s Columbus - 1650 Gemini Place; Columbus, OH 43240
What: 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.

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Photos with Santa at The Mall at Tuttle Crossing

When: Nov. 24 - Dec. 24 (see calendar for times)
Where: The Mall at Tuttle Crossing - 5043 Tuttle Crossing Blvd; Dublin, OH 43016
What: Capture the spirit of the season with a visit to Santa at The Mall at Tuttle Crossing in nearby Dublin. Enjoy a timeless tradition where families can meet and take photos with Santa. Photo packages are available for purchase to cherish these holiday memories. For convenience and to reduce waiting time, pre-booking your visit at WhereIsSanta.com is recommended. Click here for more info.


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

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This post is sponsored and contributed by Patch Holiday, a Patch Brand Partner.