2025 Free Photos with Santa

Photo by cottonbro studio

We’re all looking for ways to save during the holiday season. Capturing a moment you’ll cherish for years to come should not break the bank. Thankfully, these local events are offering free photos with Santa! 

These free photos with Jolly Old St. Nicholas are a great deal, yet the events are bound to draw a big crowd. Try to be one of the first in line by arriving early to your favorite location or registering in advance.

Have a great time creating a lasting keepsake of this holiday season. Are you hosting a free photos with Santa event? Send me an email about it. 

2025 Free Photos with Santa

Photo courtesy of Black Santa

Black Santa

November 28-December 22 (select days)

Kids and families can take their photos with Black Santa merrily dressed in his holiday best. Events are held at locations in and around Portland. Photos with Black Santa are free, but you must register in advance online.

Photo courtesy of Gresham Station Shopping Center

Gresham Station Shopping Center

December 8, 15, 20 and 21

Head to Gresham Station Shopping Center for visits and professional photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. On select days, Santa’s reindeer are also visiting the shopping center. 

Advance online registration is required to participate in this event. 

Photo courtesy of Cabela’s

Cabela’s

Now-December 24

Cabela’s offers free photos with Santa. The annual event is called Santa’s Wonderland, featuring free photos with Santa, a chance to mail a letter to Santa and free giveaways. You will need to reserve your spot.

Graphic courtesy of Beaumont Business Association

Fremont Holiday Fest

December 5

On Friday, December 5, from 4-7 p.m., the Beaumont Business Association is hosting Fremont Holiday Fest, an evening full of fun, free activities. Sign up for free selfies with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Photo courtesy of Paradise Harley-Davidson

Harley-Davidson

December 6

Visit the Paradise Harley-Davidson in Tigard for free photos with Santa Claus. From noon to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 6, bring your camera to take your own photo or the photographer will take it for you. Images are available to download from the store’s Facebook page.

Troutdale Windy Wonderland

December 6-7

Stop by Santa’s North Pole Headquarters at Troutdale Windy Wonderland for a magical photo op. Santa is available for photos on Saturday from 2:30–7 p.m. and Sunday from 12-7 p.m. While you’re there, peruse the market, participate in a scavenger hunt and view the tree lighting.

Photo courtesy of Powerland Heritage Park

Holiday Sparkles at Powerland Heritage Park

December 6-7, 12-14 and 19-21

Drive through the free Holiday Sparkles at Powerland Heritage Park light display and then meet Santa Claus. The jolly old elf is there to greet you and take pictures. Park your car and hop out to meet him.

Photo courtesy of Petsmart

PetSmart 

December 13-14

Does your pet have a special spot on your holiday card? Attend a free pet photo with Santa at PetSmart. All thirteen PetSmart locations in the Portland area are participating. You can register in advance to participate in this event. 

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Looking for more holiday events in Portland? Here’s a full list: