
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.
If you’re looking for professional photos, book your Santa photos at Portland area malls.
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.
2023 Free Photos with Santa

Photo courtesy of Black Santa
Black Santa
November 25-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.
Brentwood Darlington Winter Artisan Market
December 9
During the artisan market, families can get free photos with Santa taken by a professional photographer. Photos are available from 1-4 p.m. Be sure to reserve your free spot.
While you’re there, peruse the vendor hall featuring 20 hyper local artisans selling their goods.
The event is at Brentwood Darlington Community Center, 7211 SE 62nd Ave. in Portland.

Photo courtesy of Cabela’s
Cabela’s
November 6-December 24
Cabela’s is offering 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.
Harley-Davidson
December 2
Visit the Paradise Harley-Davidson for free photos with Santa Claus. From noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 2, bring your camera to take your own photo or the photographer will take it for you. Images will be available to download from the store’s Facebook page.
Paradise Harley-Davidson is at 10770 SW Cascade Ave. in Tigard.

Photo courtesy of Gresham Station Shopping Center
Gresham Station Shopping Center
December 4, 11, 16 and 17
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.
Fremont Holiday Fest
December 1
On Friday, December 1, 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.
PetSmart
December 16-17
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:
Saturday, December 9, 2023
Sunday, December 10, 2023
Monday, December 11, 2023
Tuesday, December 12, 2023
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
Thursday, December 14, 2023
Friday, December 15, 2023
Saturday, December 16, 2023
Sunday, December 17, 2023
Monday, December 18, 2023
Tuesday, December 19, 2023
Wednesday, December 20, 2023
Thursday, December 21, 2023
Friday, December 22, 2023
Saturday, December 23, 2023
Sunday, December 24, 2023
Monday, December 25, 2023
Tuesday, December 26, 2023
Wednesday, December 27, 2023
Thursday, December 28, 2023
Friday, December 29, 2023
Saturday, December 30, 2023
Sunday, December 31, 2023
Monday, January 1, 2024
Tuesday, January 2, 2024
Wednesday, January 3, 2024
Thursday, January 4, 2024
Friday, January 5, 2024
Saturday, January 6, 2024
Sunday, January 7, 2024
Brentwood Darlington Community Center
7211 SE 62nd Ave.
Portland, OR 97206
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