2021 Free Photos with Santa

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! 

I have seen photos with Santa events as high as $60. Some even require you to take your own photo on your phone and pay them for it. That doesn’t feel like it is aligning with the holiday spirit. So I sought out all the free photos with Santa in our area.

These free photos with Santa 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 choosing a date now and registering in advance.

Have a great time creating a lasting keepsake of this holiday season!

I have only found these Santa photo freebies so far. I’ll keep adding to this list as I find more events. Are you hosting a free photos with Santa event? Send me an email about it. 

2021 Free Photos with Santa

Photo courtesy of Black Santa PDX

Black Santa

November 28-December 23 (select days)

Black Santa is coming to town!

Santa will be inside an 10×10′ inflatable snow globe complete with a wintry backdrop. Kids and families can take their photos from outside the bubble with Black Santa merrily dressed in his Christmas best in the background.

Photos with Black Santa are free, but you must register in advance online.

Photo courtesy of Cabela’s

Cabela’s

November 6-December 24

Cabela’s is offering contactless 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 (while supplies last). You will need to reserve your spot.

Gresham Station Shopping Center

December 6, 13, 17, and 20

Head to Gresham Station Shopping Center for contact-free visits and professional photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. All you have to bring along with you is a canned good to donate to the SnowCap Community Charities “Fill A Bag” campaign.

Here are the dates and times for this free event:

• Monday, December 6, 3-8 p.m.
• Monday, December 13, 3-8 p.m.
• Friday, December 17, 2-6 p.m.
• Monday, December 20, 3-8 p.m.

Santa will bring his reindeer on Friday, December 17 from 2-6 p.m. The free reindeer meet and greet will take place in the fenced area across from the former Bed Bath & Beyond at 719 NW 12th St. 

Advance online registration is required to participate in this event.

PetSmart

Photo courtesy of Petsmart

December 4-19, weekends only

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 must register in advance to participate in this event. Photos can be taken on your own phone or on the store camera, which will be delivered to you via email.

Sheraton Portland Airport Hotel

December 11

Head to the main lobby of the Sheraton by the airport for some holiday magic. On Saturday, December 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the hotel is hosting free photos with Santa. Bring your phone or camera and staff onsite will take a picture for you. Dogs are also allowed!

While you’re there, enjoy the restaurant and coffee shop with food and drinks available for purchase. 

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