There’s a tale of a man we never quite see. You know the one—he’s sort of mysterious and travels through the sky on a sleigh led by eight reindeer? Armed with a list of who’s been naughty or nice, he visits each house on the night before Christmas with his sack full of goodies. 

But why wait for a chance to get a quick peek at Santa Claus when he's strutting around Bayou City all throughout November and December? Yes, Santa is coming to town! Here are five places where you’ll be able to find him as he spreads holiday cheer: 

Pose With Santa at (Basically) Any Local Shopping Center

Various days and times

It’s the time of year when malls pull out all the decorative stops. Festooned with giant ornaments, Christmas trees of all sizes, and lights galore, shopping centers such as Deerbrook, The Galleria, Willowbrook, and The Woodlands mall transform into the perfect places to take your holiday photos with Santa. Pro tip: WhereIsSanta.com is a great resource for parents who want to book ahead!

Skate With Santa at Discovery Green

Saturdays, 7 p.m.–8 p.m.

Now that it's finally cold enough to don boots and sweaters, the skating rink tradition at Discovery Green has returned. Whether you bring your own or rent them, put the skates on the ice and glide underneath the light-filled Downtown skies—with Santa by your side. You’ll be able to find Old Saint Nick each Saturday ahead of Christmas, beginning on November 19, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Who wouldn’t want to see him take a couple of falls in the rink?

Breakfast With Santa at the Downtown Aquarium

December 10, 11, 17, 18, 21–24, various times

The usual tradition is to leave a plateful of yummy cookies and a refreshing glass of milk for the big guy as you await his arrival. But now you can enjoy the most important meal of the day with Santa at the Downtown Aquarium. On select dates in December, families will be able to dine with Santa and enjoy a big breakfast buffet alongside the aquarium’s mascot, Sharkie, and other aquatic friends. 

Story Time With Santa at Heritage Square 

Tuesdays and Saturdays, 9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

There are many tales of Santa Claus told every Christmas season. This December, Mr. Claus himself will be telling the stories. Each Saturday and Tuesday from December 3 to 17, families can gather together in Heritage Square underneath the Christmas tree while enjoying a cup of hot chocolate as Santa reads his stories (criss cross applesauce style, of course). 

Snap a Pic With Santa at the Christmas Village at Bayou Bend

Daily, times vary

This immersive light experience at the Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens is for all ages to come out and enjoy. Enjoy the musical selections by carolers or even play your songs at the music bell stations. Engage in cotton ball fights and go sledding down the faux-snow slide. But you can’t leave this event without visiting Kris Kringle and taking a few photos (for $10)! He'll be there daily beginning December 9.