Christmas is in the air, which means Santa Claus is on his way to Victoria!
The holiday season is fast-approaching, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than taking a photo with Santa?
Whether it’s your baby’s first Christmas, an annual tradition with family, or even the chance to include your furry friend, there are plenty of places around Greater Victoria to capture the holiday magic.
Here are 6 places in and around Victoria to take photos with Santa:
Westshore Town Centre
The North Pole is taking over Westshore Town Centre!
Step into a cozy Christmas cabin backdrop for a professional photo with one of Westshore’s fabulous Santas—Santa Phil or Santa Fred!
Sessions from November 15th to December 5th are open for bookings now.
For sessions between December 6th to 24th, times open up on Sunday, November 30th at 9 a.m.
Their $31.99 package includes a 4″x 6″printed photo in a protective folder and a digital download. Any additional prints are $9.99.
Appointments for sensory-sensitive, pet-friendly, and photos without Santa are also available.
Don’t miss out on this festive photo opportunity! You can book your session here.
- Where: Westshore Town Centre, 2945 Jacklin Road
- When: November 15th to December 24th – hours vary
Lights of Wonder
Mr. and Mrs. Claus are making a pitstop at Lights of Wonder on their way back to the North Pole!
After the Santa Parade, head over to Centennial Square for a photo with this iconic duo against a dazzling holiday backdrop.
The fun doesn’t stop there—the evening is filled with fun events.
Watch a live performance from the Wong Sheung Kung Fu Club Lion Dancers, as well as musical guest Stray Cougar, Ian Spotting, and The Sidney Brass.
It’s a night you won’t want to miss!
- Where: Centennial Square, 1 Centennial Square
- When: Saturday, November 29th – following the parade
Mayfair Shopping Centre
Celebrate your holiday traditions at The North Pole Picture Co. at Mayfair Shopping Centre!
From November 26th to December 24th, Santa will be greeting family, friends, and even pets, near Bath and Body Works, for Christmas pictures.
Choose from three packages, ranging from $29 to $45 with additional pictures for $8 each.
Walk-ins are welcomed, but reservations are encouraged. Book your slot here!
- Where: Mayfair Shopping Centre, #221-3147 Douglas Street
- When: November 26th to December 24th – hours vary
Hillside Centre
Create magical memories with Santa at Hillside!
This Santa Photo Session includes one 5″×7″ printed photo in a festive folder, plus a digital file—all for $24.99, making it a perfect way to capture the magic of the season.
Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.
Reservations are now open on their website.
- Where: Hillside Centre, 1644 Hillside Avenue
- When: November 29th to December 24th – hours vary
Sooke Fire Fighters Code 3 Santa Event
Santa is driving into town on a 1942 vintage fire truck!
Alongside festive photos featuring the vintage vehicle, there will be crafts, snacks, hot chocolate, and activities for the whole family.
Reserve your spot for $40 here.
All proceeds go to support the Sooke Food Bank and Christmas Bureau!
- Where: Sooke Fire Rescue, 2225 Otter Point Road
- When: Saturday November 29th & Sunday, November 30th – 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Esquimalt Recreation Centre
Santa is popping in at Esquimalt Recreation Centre!
This is the perfect spot to capture those classic Christmas photos. No reservations required!
Bring your own smartphone or camera, and their friendly staff will be happy to snap a photo of you and your loved ones.
While you’re there, don’t forget to spread some holiday cheer! The Township of Esquimalt’s food donation box will be open for donations for their 26th Annual Holiday Food Drive.
- Where: Esquimalt Recreation Centre, 527 Fraser Street
- When: Saturday December 13th – 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
If we missed a Santa photo spot that should be on the list, drop it in the comments below or send us an email at info@victoriabuzz.com!
