The holiday season brings a magical time filled with joy and laughter! A cherished tradition for families is capturing special moments with Santa Claus through timeless Christmas photos. While professional photo sessions with Santa can be pricey, there are plenty of opportunities across the United States to get a free picture with him. In this article, we’ll explore locations where you can obtain free Christmas photos with Santa (yes, even for your pets!) and discover other free holiday events near you.
Next, we will answer the following questions:
- Where can I get free Christmas photos with Santa?
- Are the pictures actually free?
- Is the experience exclusive to kids?
- Are reservations required?
- Where can my pets get free pictures with Santa?
- How can I find other free Christmas events in my community?
Where can I get free Christmas photos with Santa?
Bass Pro Shops: Santa’s Wonderland is happening from Nov. 4 to Dec. 24, featuring free games and a toy area. Families visiting Santa receive a free 4-by-6-inch studio-quality photo and a shareable video. Additional photo packages are available for purchase and can be instantly printed at the store. Reservations are required at all locations and open up a week in advance. Click HERE to make your online reservation.
Cabela’s: Bass Pro Shops owns Cabela’s, so you will also get free Cabela’s Santa photos from Nov. 4 to Dec. 24, at all Cabela’s locations. All families receive a free 4-by-6-inch studio-quality photo. Click HERE to make your online reservation.
Macy’s: Meet Santa at flagship locations in New York, Chicago, San Francisco, and Philadelphia. Entrance to the Macy’s Holiday Celebration is free, but Christmas photos are not included and reservations are required. Photo packages start at $39.99. Reserve your spot up to five days in advance.
Bryant Park: Between Dec. 16 and 22, head to Bryant Park in New York City for free Christmas photos with Santa. Guests can use their smartphones for photos, and props are available. Click HERE for more information.Â
Belk: Looking for other unique Santa experiences? Belk is teaming up with PackageFromSanta.com to offer a FREE personalized phone call from Santa. To set up a personalized call with Santa, click HERE. Calls can be made to landlines; otherwise, you can set it up on the app –– available for Android and Apple devices.
When can my pets get free pictures with Santa?
Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s: As long as your local store allows it, you can bring your dogs (and cats) along for a free pet photo with Santa!
Please note, there are only two Bass Pro Shops locations that don’t allow pets:
- Dania Beach, Florida
- Mesa, Arizona
PetSmart: Hosts dog and Santa photoshoots on December 16 and 17. Appointments are recommended; walk-ins may be accommodated if time permits. Photos can be taken on a personal or store device, and delivered via email. Click HERE for more details.
How can I find other free Christmas events in my community?
If the mentioned places aren’t near you, don’t worry! Check out our article Fun Christmas Activities and Games to Enjoy as a Family at a Low Cost. We provide step-by-step guidance on finding free Christmas events near you, easy recipes, and fun games and activities for the whole family to enjoy this holiday season!
