Pictures with Santa, updated for 2023:
The Santa photo session is a beloved holiday tradition. What fun to look back through the years to see how your kids (and maybe the Santas, too) have changed.
We know of at least two families who have told their skeptical teenagers, “As long as you’re living under our roof, you’re sitting for a Santa photo!” (That way their chronological displays can range from scared babies to eye-rolling adolescents.)
Do you have a favorite, year-after-year spot, or do you go when the mood strikes and the lines aren’t too long?
If you’re open to suggestions, here are a bunch. We don’t claim that this is an exhaustive list. However, scroll down for a good selection of both diverse Santas and Santa sessions tailored for kids with special needs.
Pro tip: If you want to avoid lines, go early in the season. Going early in the day is also a good idea.
Old-school Santa
Arthur & Associates
If nostalgia is what drives you to seek Santa, then Arthur & Associates is the company for you. According to company lore, a Seattle Post-Intelligencer photographer named Art French invented Santa portrait photography. He set up a photography studio in the window of Seattle’s Frederick & Nelson department store in 1943. Arthur & Associates carry on his style of a tradition that is now global. And if you are really a stickler for originals, you can go to the Town Center at Lake Forest Park and have your kid’s picture taken on the original Frederick & Nelson set.
Locations (Click to check hours and individual Santa schedules): University Village, Bellevue Square, The Commons at Federal Way, Everett Mall, Town Center at Lake Forest Park, and Redmond Town Center.
This year, the neighborhood of Magnolia offers an experience with Santa at the North Pole. Take family photos with Santa, and capture the happiness of the holidays. For more detailed information, and to book an appointment call Steve at 206-406-7119.
Pictures with Santa: All around the Seattle area
Given Santa’s legendary powers of swift travel, it’s not surprising he pops up in some unusual places. Here are some notable spots around the Seattle area where you can get a picture with the man in the red suit.
Diving Santa at the Seattle Aquarium
Santa doesn’t just fly with his reindeer. He also dives into the deep. Watch him swim gracefully in the 120,000-gallon Window on Washington Habitat at the Aquarium. He’ll stop at the window for photos and a wave hello. December 17, 18, noon and 3 p.m. December 24 at noon only. The event is included in the price of admission.
Santa is in town! Grab a picture with the big guy on November 24-December 24. Packages start at $42.
Issaquah Reindeer Festival
Dec. 1 through Dec. 23, the Cougar Mountain Zoo hosts Santa and his reindeer. View the reindeer and other animals, visit Santa in his home and listen to stories read by elves. Kids may feed some of the animals as well. Advance ticket purchase required.
Shop, dine and get your photos done, just in time to send your holiday cards! Choose from dates in November and December. Be sure to read all the rules about cancellations, rescheduling and walk-ins.
Make your reservations at the Fair and visit with Santa in his North Pole workshop. Play at the Lego table while you wait and explore the imaginative play stations, all for kids to have a magical experience for the holidays. November 18-December 23, days and times vary.
Get your free photos at Pike Place Market from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on December 9 then go shopping. Those who spend $50 or more will receive wrapping paper as a free gift. Stop by the staff table at the Pavilion.
Family Photos with Santa in the Chinatown-International District
Visit Santa in the historic Chinatown-International District at Wing Luke Museum. Pay homage and reconnect with a space that is the foundation of many cultures and heritages. Event is open and welcome to all. Saturday, Dec. 9, noon-3 p.m. Advanced tickets are recommended to get a time slot. Walk-up appointments available on a limited basis. $12/one print and digital access.
Reserve your private 30-minute photo session for children with Santa. This includes a private time slot with a photographer to capture photos, 3-4 edited photos received 4 days after the shoot. Price: $45 Dates available to book: December 2,8,9 and 10- times vary.
Come to the gardens and admire all the festive lighting right before your scheduled photo with Santa. Stop by during the weekdays, November 27-December 23.
Tulalip: Santa’s Wonderland at Cabela’s
Make your free Santa photo reservation and head over to Cabela’s for a free 4×6 photo. Availability: November 5-December 24.
Black Santa at Black Coffee Northwest
Drop in to see Santa on 12/2, 12 p.m.-3 p.m.. Holiday food, fun and giveaways at this non-denominational get-together.
Black Night Market: A Very Merry Market
Support 80+ BIPOC BIPOC-owned businesses, artists, and performances, and take photos with Black Santa. Vendors, food trucks, holiday games and more. Reservations recommended. Free entrance and street parking.
Pictures with Santa: sensory-friendly
Going to a dazzling public place and parking in the lap of a costumed stranger for a chat and a photo is not something all children take to. For kids on the autism spectrum or with sensory processing issues, it can be tough indeed. This is why a few places cater to kids who need a more controlled situation, with less stimuli and a Santa trained in connecting with kids with their needs. Note: Reservations are required for these Santas.
Alderwood Mall: Santa Cares invites children with special needs to visit the mall between 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. on December 3.
The Outlet Collection Seattle: Sensitive Santa is for everyone and will be there for two special sessions on December 3. Book your spot for a time between 9:00 a.m. and 9:45 a.m..
Tacoma Mall: Caring Santa is coming to town on December 3, 9:00 a.m.- 10:30 a.m.. Be sure to book tickets in advance.
