Your Guide to Magical Holiday Memories: Where to See Santa This Season in Howard County, MD!
Ho ho ho, the holiday excitement is real in our house! My kids have been counting down the days to see Santa, and I’m right there with them – watching their eyes light up as they spot the big guy in red is just pure magic. Luckily, there are some amazing local spots to catch Santa this season around Columbia and Howard County, MD. Here’s our go-to guide for a “jolly” day out, with all the details you need to plan your visit!
Santa Brunch at Alexandra’s Restaurant
When: Every Sunday in December with seatings available from 10 AM - 2 PM.
Where: Turf Valley Resort, Alexandra’s Restaurant: 2700 Turf Valley Rd., Ellicott City, Maryland 21042
Tickets: Call 410-480-2400 for reservations; $52 Adults* | $32 Children, Ages 4-11* | Ages 3 & Under Free
*Plus Tax & Gratuity. Brunch beverages available for purchase.
Imagine enjoying a cozy brunch with your family, and suddenly – Santa himself makes an entrance! Every Sunday in December, Alexandra’s Restaurant in Turf Valley Resort transforms into a holiday wonderland where you and your little ones can indulge in a delicious brunch and snap photos with Santa. Their breakfast spread is always amazing, and if your kiddos are anything like mine, they’ll be thrilled with all the treats. Don’t forget to call ahead – this event fills up quickly, so you’ll want to secure your spot early!
Lunch with Santa at Reckless Shepherd
When: Saturday, November 30; 11 AM - 3 PM.
Where: Reckless Shepherd Brewpub, 8895 McGaw Rd., Columbia, MD 21045
Mark your calendars for the day after Thanksgiving because this special lunch event kicks off the season at Reckless Shepherd Brewpub! We’re planning to go, and I can already see my kids' excitement at the thought of enjoying lunch and hanging out with Santa. It’s such a relaxed setting, and the atmosphere is perfect for families. Plus, they usually have some fun surprises for the little ones, so bring your camera for those memorable moments. Word has that Santa will be there all the way from the North Pole for photos from 12-2pm!
Cookies & Cocoa with Santa at Severna Park Community Center
When: Friday, December 13, 5 PM - 8 PM
Where: Severna Park Community Center - 623 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd., Severna Park, MD 21146
410-647-5843
This event is FREE!
For a cozy, festive evening, there’s nothing better than cookies, cocoa, and Santa! Severna Park Community Center hosts this fun event that’s all about quality time with the big guy. My kids can hardly wait to decorate cookies, sip on warm cocoa, and share their holiday wish lists with Santa himself. It’s a perfect Friday evening activity, so if you’re looking for a low-key yet magical Santa encounter, this is the one.
Breakfast Snacks with Santa at The Other Barn (Oakland Mills)
When: Saturday, December 7, 9 AM - 11:15 AM; Seatings at 9 AM and 9:45 AM
Where: The Other Barn, Oakland Mills Community Center - 5851 Robert Oliver Place Columbia, MD 21045
Tickets: $8.00 for everyone ages 2 and older. Limit 10 tickets per person, fees included in the price of the ticket.
The Other Barn’s Breakfast with Santa is a longtime local favorite! With two morning seatings, you have a chance to enjoy a laid-back breakfast, all while the kids get to chat with Santa and share their holiday dreams. They offer two seating times, so if your little ones are early risers like mine, you can grab the first slot, or opt for a little extra sleep and go at 9:45. It’s one of those events that truly feels like the holidays – cozy, warm, and full of community spirit.
Dinner with Santa at the EC Diner
When: Tuesday, December 10 from 6 PM - 8 PM
Where: EC Diner, 10055 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21042
First come, first serve!
