I feel a bit like the character ‘Elf’ when I see Santa. I sort of still want to loudly declare that I know him. And as recently as last year, I may have dropped a letter to Santa at the local Macy’s drop box. So, naturally, I look for where I can find Santa in Denver – and it may or may not be partially for me as much as it is for kids so don’t miss our guide for where to find Santa in Denver for 2022. 
And, if you want to dress it up for those cute pictures and check out these darling reindeer antlers Santa hats or if you suspect your little one might freak out during their Santa visit, this Grinch Who Stole Christmas laplander hat would be a memorable photo opp.
Also, don’t miss the Ultimate Guide to the Holiday in Denver, Denver’s Best Holiday Markets and Craft Fairs, our Colorado Holiday Gift Guide with 50+ ideas and Denver’s 7 Best Christmas Tree Farms.
Santa Locations in Denver 2022
Outlets at Castle Rock. Santa’s arrival is a big deal at the Outlets of Castle Rock. They have created a whole event of their tree-lighting. This year the annual concert will feature JAX (who sings I know Victoria’s Secret). Put Saturday, November 12 from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on your calendar to join in on all the fun (and great deals at the Outlet stores). And after all the fun festivities, Santa will be there most weekdays 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cherry Creek Shopping Center. Santa’s Flight Academy arrives again at Cherry Creek Shopping Center. Santa’s Grand Arrival will take place on Friday, November 11. Step inside the 22-foot-tall sleigh and experience snowfall in the center! Plus, the Tree Lighting and after-party will take place on Saturday, November 19 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Valet plaza. If you want a photo with Santa there is a charge, but just to visit there is no cost. They are taking reservations online.
FlatIron Crossing. When Santa arrives at a mall he’s not about cookies and milk, he’s about breakfast! Join FlatIron Crossing for Santa’s Arrival and Breakfast on November, 12 at 9:30 a.m. in the Food Court. The morning will include entertainment, face painting, balloon twisting, crafts, and of course breakfast!
Streets at Southglenn.The Grand Holiday Parade with Santa’s Arrival and Tree Lighting will take place on Friday, November 18 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The fun will include Clydesdale carriage rides, free photos with Santa, live reindeer, cookies & Cocoa with elves.
Castle Rock Star Lighting. November 19 from 2 p.m. to 6 pm. Festivities will take place in Wilcox Square. Ongoing festivities include strolling carolers, dance groups and live entertainment. There is a kids’ zone, hot chocolate and games. Plus, food trucks, booths with holiday goodies and trinkets. Visit Santa Clause and then, at 5 p.m. the ceremony to light The Star will begin.
Bass Pro Shop and Cabela’s. Santa’s first appearance of the season was last weekend, November 5 at the Santa’s Wonderland inside of Bass Pro Shop. At Santa’s Wonderland you can get a free photo with the big man himself, play in the toy shop, or write and mail your letter.
Colorado Mills. Starting November 18 Santa will be available most days to listen to your kid’s wishes at Santa’s Cabin in the food court.
Park Meadows Mall. Santa will be available for visits and photos. Pets can sit with Santa too on special nights. And if your child might need a low-sensory visit that will take place on Dec 4 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Southwest Plaza. Visit Santa for Free or buy a photo package. Plus, for just $121 after your visit, you can go ice-skating!
Orchard Town Center. Winterfest begins on November 12 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. when Santa and his reindeer will be on-site to light the two-story tree and take photos. Orchard Town Center is one of the few places you can snap a free photo with Santa! Weekends through December 24.
Union Station. The Grand Illumination will take place on November 25. The event will feature live entertainment, Santa and Mrs. Claus and of course the tree-lighting.
Mile High Farms. Mile High Farms in Bennett is having its 2nd Annual Winter Festival opening on November 24 & 25 on Saturdays and Sundays through December 18. When you are there you can take part in hay ride, petting zoo, crafts, games and other fun activities. Get a photo with Santa for just $7.
Heaven Creamery. Santa is everywhere, not just malls! You can have hot chocolate with Santa at heaven Creamery (299 Milwaukee) on December 10 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Gaylord Rockies. Gaylord Rockies has a LOT of Christmas happening from an ice-skating rink and tubing hill to story time with Mrs. Claus and a Cirque show. Christmas kicks off Friday, November 18th.
Olde Golden Candlelight Walk. While not specifically about Santa, this is honestly one of my favorite events of the season! Join me on December 2 starting at 5 p.m. Sing carols and join in as carolers walk down Washington Avenue as the street becomes illuminated by the addition of more people as the crowd makes its way to the “switch” to turn on all the holiday lights along downtown and Clear Creek. Stores will be open and there will be hot cider, cocoa and cafes to enjoy along the way.
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Author: Gretchen
Gretchen loves to be outdoors! She is addicted to coupons and finding the best deals or entering sweepstakes (one day she will win something really great!)
