The holidays are right around the corner and kids are beginning to make their wish list for Santa. And parents — this is the perfect time to take some great photos!
Here is where to meet Santa this year in North Texas:
The Shops at Willow Bend
Where: 6121 W Park Blvd, Plano
When: Now - Dec. 24
Price: Packages from $39.99
Get ready for Santa Claus' arrival in Plano! Starting on Nov. 15, families are invited to The Shops at Willow Bend for the opportunity to capture memorable moments with Santa. Santa will be delighted to pose for pictures from Monday to Saturday, with his schedule set from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on Sundays, you can visit him from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. As the holiday season approaches in December, Santa's photo hours on Saturdays will extend, starting from 10 a.m. and continuing until 8 p.m. While reservations are recommended for photo sessions, walk-ins are also welcomed.
The Star
Where: 3620 The Star Blvd, Suite 1205
When: Now - Dec. 24
Price: Packages from $40.00
Join Santa at the Star, presented by Monument Realty, as he makes his grand entrance to his delightful Dallas Cowboys fan-themed set at The Star in Frisco. Guests will be thrilled to capture cherished moments with Santa inside his very own custom-made Dallas Cowboys cottage. Photo packages encompass a beautifully printed 5x7 photograph, plus an exclusive Cowboys keepsake for every child.
For those planning to visit, there's an opportunity to save $5 by booking their appointment before Dec. 9. using the special code STAR5 when making your reservation.
The Shops at Legacy
Where: 5741 Legacy Drive Plano
When: Now - Dec. 22
Price: Packages from $30.00
Get ready for a magical experience as The Shops at Legacy's lights returns on Nov. 19. From 4 to 6:15 PM, you can capture heartwarming memories with Santa and Mrs. Claus through delightful photos beginning Nov. 25. Not only will you create lasting memories, but 50% of the proceeds will also go towards supporting My Possibilities. The opportunity operates on a first-come, first-served basis. To secure your spot for Santa photos throughout the month of December, be sure to visit www.silverstarpicturessanta.com.
Galleria Dallas
Where: 13350 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas
When: Now - Dec. 24
Price: Packages from $27
Santa arrives at Galleria Dallas on Nov. 17, and will welcome guests in Santaland on Level I near Banana Republic. Galleria Dallas offers the area’s most technologically advanced Santa experience, where families board a magical train, seeing the sights as they move from Dallas to the North Pole. There will be designated times for Santa Paws, Santa Cares and Spanish-speaking Santa. Reservations are strongly recommended and can be made online beginning Oct. 1.
Visiting Santa is ticketed per person with timed entry, allowing us to better manage capacity. After selecting admission tickets for each person in your family or group, you'll select a photo package, which is how you'll receive your professional Santa photos.
Stonebriar Center
Where: 2601 Preston Rd, Frisco
When: Now - Dec. 21
Price: Packages from $19.99 (does not include a photo), $39.99 (with photos)
Santa is welcoming families to the Stronebriar Center in Frisco beginning Nov. 13. Reservations are not needed, but are strongly recommended. Families can choose from multiple packages varying in price and photo options.
Fairview Town Center
Where: 329 Town Place, Fairview
When: Now - Dec. 23
Price: $10
Come enjoy a stress-free Santa encounter at FTC, at a time that suits your schedule and capture the moments with your own camera! Your $10 reservation fee ensures an exclusive time slot for your family to meet Santa, a special gift for each child and a Santa's Helper who will gladly take photos of your family using your camera. The full booking fee will go towards supporting the Children's Advocacy Center of Collin County. Leashed, friendly pets are welcome. Reservations can be made online.
Miracle On 134th Street
Where: 10455 County Road 133, Celina
When: Now - Dec. 23
Price: Kids $17.99, Adults $23.99
Immerse yourself in the enchantment of over 2 million twinkling Christmas lights that transform the forest into a mesmerizing spectacle. At the heart of this magical experience is Santa's expansive 8500 square foot workshop, where moments seamlessly transition into cherished memories. Enjoy a complimentary meet and greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and be sure to ask one of the friendly elves to capture a picture-perfect moment for you. Amidst the sparkling lights, pause to savor Mrs. Claus's delightful hot cocoa or unwind by one of our numerous s'more pits. Don't miss the chance for the kids to embark on the Reindeer Express and revel in the Carousel of Lights.
Lights on the Farm
Where: Heritage Farmstead Museum, Plano
When: Now - Dec. 30
Price: $10
Visitors begin their scenic stroll on Candycane Lane, a 1/4-mile trail bordered by trees lit with thousands of lights and animated displays. You can find Santa working in his farm shop and write Santa a letter while you wait to take your own photo with the jolly old elf. Poncho’s pasture will also feature elaborate displays, including a twenty-foot-tall Christmas tree. Guests can sit a spell and enjoy a s’more before they conclude their visit through an illuminated tunnel of lights which includes music and animated light displays.
Towards the end of your visit, you'll find a photo opp with Santa in his Christmas farmhouse. The scene, complete with a real Santa, of course, is beautifully staged with a barn backdrop complete with presents and a little stool snuggled up next to Santa for the perfect Santa photo.
Many of these popular Santa spots sell out quickly, so make sure to book now.
This article was originally published on Nov. 9, 2023.