As the festive season approaches, families in Petaluma, California, are gearing up for the beloved tradition of visiting Santa Claus. This year, there are numerous opportunities for children and parents alike to meet the jolly old man in red, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Mark your calendars for a series of exciting events happening in and around Petaluma and Sonoma County, where Santa will be making appearances and spreading holiday cheer.
Thursday, December 5, 5-8 p.m.: The Sebastopol Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Holiday Tree Lighting celebration. This festive gathering will feature Santa Claus himself, along with holiday trivia, classic cartoons on a big screen, live music, ballet performances, and the Peacetown’s Love Choir. Attendees can warm up with hot cocoa and cider, and even enjoy a goat petting station, making it a perfect family-friendly event.
Friday, December 6, 5-9 p.m.: The Merry Healdsburg Tree Lighting Celebration at Healdsburg Plaza promises a winter wonderland experience. Families can snap photos with Santa while enjoying horse-drawn carriage rides, performances by The Sugarplums and Healdsburg Chorus, and engaging in holiday crafts suitable for all ages. The night market will also be open, featuring a variety of local vendors.
Friday, December 6, 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.: Join the Soroptimist International of Sonoma Valley and Sonoma Valley Volunteer Firefighters Association for Santa on the Plaza in Historic Sonoma. Attendees can enjoy a cup of hot chocolate while waiting for Santa to arrive in an antique fire truck, assisted by local firefighters. Santa will light the tree at City Hall and will be available for photos and to hear children’s Christmas wishes.
Saturday, December 7, 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.: Take a ride on SMART’s Holiday Express, where Santa Claus will be aboard for two special trips. Families are invited to create holiday memories by capturing photos with Santa during the train rides. The first trip departs from the Sonoma County Airport Station at 9:32 a.m., while the second departs from the Larkspur Station at 11:30 a.m. Santa will also be collecting new, unwrapped toys for the Toys for Tots campaign, encouraging attendees to give back this holiday season.
Saturday, December 7, 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.: Families can enjoy Pancakes and Cheer with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the inaugural Breakfast with Santa hosted by the Harmony Salmon Creek Education Foundation. Tickets are priced at $10 for children and $15 for adults, making it an affordable way to enjoy breakfast and meet Santa.
Saturday, December 7, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.: The Penngrove Winter Fest will also feature opportunities for photos with Santa, allowing families to capture the magic of the season.
Saturday, December 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.: Santa will be present at the Winter Craft Faire held at Credo High School in Rohnert Park, providing another chance for families to meet him and enjoy holiday festivities.
Saturday, December 7, noon-4 p.m.: Conveniently located in Healdsburg, Santa will be at Convene, welcoming families for photos at the tasting lounge. Attendees can snap selfies with Santa while sampling and purchasing holiday bottles, which make for great gifts.
Saturday, December 7, 3-7 p.m.: The Forestville Holiday Faire on Front Street will bring together local artisans and vendors, with Santa making an appearance to delight children and families.
These events not only provide opportunities to meet Santa but also foster a sense of community and holiday spirit among local residents. Families are encouraged to participate in these festive gatherings, creating joyful experiences that celebrate the magic of the season.
