Where To See Santa In The Newton Area This Christmas Season

NEWTON, MA — Visits and pictures with Santa are treasured traditions for many Newton families. For them, there’s nothing quite like seeing jolly old St. Nick live and in person.

In the Newton area, kids have several chances:

• Santa will have a residency at a number of local malls for photo opportunities and holiday fun. Reservations are encouraged:

- Burlington Mall, 75 Middlesex Turnpike in Burlington. Now to Dec. 24 (Hours vary). More information.

- The Shops at Chestnut Hill, 199 Boylston St. in Chestnut Hill. Friday to December 24 (Hours vary). More information.

- Northshore Mall, 210 Andover St. in Peabody. Now to Dec. 24 (Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sun. noon to 6 p.m.). More information.

Some of these malls also have times designated for "Pet Photos" and "Baby's First Christmas." On Dec. 3, each of these malls also will have Caring Santa, a private photo experience that is exclusively for children with special needs.

• Santa's Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops, 1 Bass Pro Dr. Now through Dec. 24. You can make a reservation for a free photo appointment with Santa, where you will receive a 4 x 6 photo. Plus, you will receive a free shareable video. More Information.

• Prudential Center Santa in the City, at Hynes Court in the Prudential Center in Boston, 800 Boylston St. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from Nov. 24 to Dec. 24. Little ones should bring a holiday wish list and you'll leave with a souvenir photo. There also are Sensory Friendly and Pet Friendly dates. More information.

• Bark and Brews with Santa, Granite Coast Brewing Company in Peabody, 77 Main St., #unit b. The event is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Nov. 26. Take your holiday photos early. Bring your pup to take a photo with Santa and enjoy a beer. More information.

• Santa Experience at ZooLights, Stone Zoo in Stoneham, 149 Pond St. Dates: December 3 -5, 10- 12, 17 -19, and 22. Tickets, which cost $45 for members and $50 for non-members, include a meet and greet with Santa, hot chocolate, s'mores and ZooLights admission. Professional photos are available for purchase and guests are welcome to take their own photo/video. More Information.

• Pastries & Play with Santa 2023, The POP Center in Newton, 1037 Chestnut St. Scheduled for 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Dec. 9, the festive, family-friendly event is perfect for kids ages 0-6. Santa Claus is making a special visit and he's eager to hear your little one's holiday wishes and pose for photos. Don't forget to bring your camera or smartphone. There also will be storytime with Mrs. Claus. More information.

• Holiday Wagon Rides at Gore Place in Waltham, 52 Gore St. On Dec. 16, there will be rides around the grounds from 10 a.m. to noon. Attendees will be greeted by Santa in the carriage house. A professional photographer will be on hand, though Santa will not be in the professional photos. Cost: $21 per adult, $16 per child (under 12). More information.

• Santa at The Ford Tavern in Medford, 61 Locust St., 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Dec. 16. Come for lunch and enjoy free pictures with Santa and gifts for kids and parents. Reservations are not required but are encouraged. More information.