guides

πŸŽ… Santa Sightings near Thornton, Northglenn, Westminster

Updated for 2024

By Susan Troy - Publisher, Thornton, Northglenn, East Westminster December 3, 2024

You better watch out.
You better not cry.
You better not pout.
I'm telling you why...

πŸŽ… Santa Claus is coming to town! πŸŽ…

Don't miss your chance to meet and take photos with Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, the North Pole Elves, and Santa's Reindeer at a variety of venues in Thornton, Northglenn, and Westminster... plus a few of our favorites worth the drive. Events are listed below chronologically by start date.

Santa often makes his way to our local tree lighting and community parade events.
For these one-off events, visit our Holiday Lights & Parades guide.

Santa Events

Santa's Wonderland
Now-December 24
Most Cabela's & Bass Pro Shop locations • FREE! Photo packages available for purchase
Experience the magic of Christmas with a visit and photo with Santa! Families will receive a free 4x6 studio-quality photo. Photo packages are available for purchase. Guests will receive a FREE shareable video.


Photos with Santa at FlatIrons
Select Dates, Now–December 24
FlatIron Crossing, Broomfield • FREE! Photo packages start at $39.99

The magic of the holiday season comes alive with a visit to Santa’s winter wonderland.


Luminova Holidays
Now–December 31
Elitch Gardens, Denver
The big guy in red will be at Luminova to hear all about your holiday wishes until December 23rd.


Noel Northglenn
December 6 from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Northglenn Rec Center, Northglenn

Join the community for Northglenn's kick-off to the holiday season. Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy carriage rides, shop at the bake sale, participate in kids' crafts, and relish in the holiday cheer.


Photos with Santa at the Orchard
Fridays thru Sundays, Now-22
The Orchard Town Center, Westminster • FREE!

Visit with Santa and take a photo on your own phone at no cost.


Breakfast with Santa
December 7, 8, 14, 15, & 21- 24 • Seating starts at 8:30 AM
Downtown Aquarium, Denver • $20.05 - $27.13
Join Santa for a breakfast buffet of pancakes, waffles, french toast, eggs, honey-glazed ham, sausage, fruit, pastries, and more! 50% off exhibit admission and validated parking is included with the purchase of a breakfast ticket. Plus, guests will receive a take-home Christmas craft.


Olde Fashion Christmas
December 7 & 8
Stonehocker Farmhouse, Northglenn
The Northglenn Historic Preservation Commission will be selling affordable gifts that make great stocking stuffers and baked goods to nibble on. Kids can head upstairs for photos with Santa, and afterward, they’ll receive a free book. 


Live Reindeer
December 8 & 15 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Denver Premium Outlets, Thornton
Learn about reindeer, touch a shed antler, and take photos! Make memories and experience the magic of being up close and personal with these fantastic animals.


Dinner with Santa at Westminster Chic-Fil-A
December 10 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Chick-fil-A Orchard Park Place, Westminster
Bring the whole family to enjoy a delightful dinner at Chick-fil-A, filled with seasonal flavors and festive fun! Kids will have the opportunity to write their very own letters to Santa Claus and get their photo taken with him!


Breakfast with Santa
Saturday, December 14 from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Thornton Active Adult Center, Thornton
Before Thornton WinterFest, join the community for Breakfast with Santa. Breakfast will include pancakes, ham, eggs, orange juice and coffee. Photos with Santa can be taken with your personal device.


Brunch with Father Christmas
Saturday, December 14 at 10:00 AM or 1:00 PM
Four Mile Historic Park, Denver • $35-$45
Dine on a scrumptious brunch buffet with Father Christmas and wander the winter landscape while you sip warm drinks and crisp cocktails. Create some holiday cheer with unique Colorado Christmas crafts. Tractor rides will take you through the frosty farm while you keep warm under a layer of fuzzy blankets, always a Four Mile favorite! And don’t forget to go on the Yule Log Hunt. The winner takes a Yule log cake home!


Visit with Santa & Concert
December 14 at 10 a.m.
Hyland Hills Sports Center, Westminster

The Original Dickens Carolers will perform a concert with carols and holiday stories; afterward, you’ll get to visit and take your photo with Santa.