Ridge Hill
Yonkers
Each year, Santa and his elves erect this magical, interactive cottage along one of Ridge Hill’s store-lined lanes. The richly decorated library is the place to snap scholarly shots with St. Nick. (He’s in the cottage early on Dec 2 and 9 for sensory-friendly experiences in partnership with Autism Speaks). Can’t make it to Ridge Hill to see Santa? You can catch him live on Facebook.
Photos: From $27.99
Do We Have to Wait? Reserve in advance at www.ridgehill.com/santa  Â
Winter Wonderland
Valhalla
You might catch a glimpse of the Mrs. with Santa in his workshop at Winter Wonderland. When he’s not hanging with wifey, you’ll find him checking out the event’s myriad attractions, including visiting with children from Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital during the annual tree lighting.
Photos: Take-your-own photos only. $20 admission includes all of Winter Wonderland’s other activities.
Do We Have to Wait? About 15–20 minutes on busy weekends
The Westchester
White Plains
You can’t miss Santa’s iconic Center Court sled brimming with lights, trees, and gifts. A squad of elves — Snowball, Tinsel, Jingle, Sparkle, and Merry — are on hand to facilitate each visit, including pet nights (Dec 2 and 9, 6:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m.) and the Caring Santa event on Dec 2, which provides sensory-friendly visits.
Photos: From $27.99
Do We Have to Wait? Reserve in advance at www.simonsanta.com
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Jefferson Valley Mall
Yorktown Heights
When he’s on the clock, Kris Kringle visits Westchesterites on his giant, gift-covered sled surrounded by snowmen and trimmed trees. (Pet night is Dec 9, 6 p.m.–8 p.m.) When he’s not in the sleigh, Santa works off all those cookies with moms and kids at JV Mall’s Fit4Mom program.
Photos: From $24.99
Do We Have to Wait? Reserve in advance at www.santafastpass.com
Disclaimer: Santa is exceptionally busy at the North Pole in December. Helpers may appear in the classic red suit on Mr. Claus’ behalf.
Cross County Shopping Center
Yonkers
One of the county’s tallest trees signals that you’ve found Santa’s Wonderland House, tucked into an LED Christmas forest. Kids (and pets on Dec 3 and 10, 5:15 p.m.–8:15 p.m.) make all kinds of requests, from trips to see every baseball stadium in America to a simple hug from Jolly St. Nick.
Photos: From $39.99
Do We Have to Wait? Reserve in advance at www.celebrateyourholiday.com
The Galleria
White Plains
Santa’s got a brand new workshop at The Galleria, and it comes with a 30’ tree. Pet owners, this one’s for you. Furry friends are welcome anytime.
Photos: From $24.99
Do We Have to Wait? 5–10 minutes
