Family Christmas Traditions in Santa Claus, Indiana

Posted on November 10, 2023

Most families have their own holiday traditions—ones passed down from generation to generation and new ones created by growing families. And this year, it might just be time to add a new Christmas tradition to your celebrations when you visit Santa Claus, Indiana!

During the Santa Claus Christmas Celebration, you’ll find memory-making events and festive activities all throughout the area. Check out six family-friendly things to do this holiday season.

6 Christmas Traditions in Santa Claus, Indiana 

Write a Letter to Santa

Visit the original Santa Claus Post Office, located at the Santa Claus Museum & Village, to write a letter to Santa. And you’ll get a reply by Christmas! This unique setting is cozy and quaint—perfect for thinking of a special message to send the jolliest man of all. While you’re there, meander through the museum to learn the magical history of Santa Claus, Indiana. PRO TIP: Take a photo of the letter your child writes to save as a keepsake along with the reply they’ll receive before Christmas! 

Visit the One-and-Only Santa Claus Post Office

That’s right, the Santa Claus Post Office is the only post office in the world with Santa’s name. And if you want to make your holiday deliveries extra special, stop in the post office during December when the annual Santa Claus picture postmark is available to hand-cancel your mail and packages. Before sending your season's greetings, here are 5 helpful things to know about the Santa Claus Postmark. PRO TIP: Take a selfie or family photo with the popular Santa Statue in front of the post office to commemorate your visit!

Remember Your Visit with a Personalized Keepsake

Want to make sure you remember your visit to America’s Christmas Hometown forever? Evergreen Boutique & Christmas Shop and Santa Claus Christmas Store offer a great selection of keepsake Christmas ornaments—and they can be personalized for free! Every year when you trim your tree at home, you’ll be reminded of your magical visit to Santa Claus, Indiana. PRO TIP: Christmas ornaments and decorations aren’t the only things you’ll find in these stores. Try one of the giant cookies at the Christmas Store. And treat yourself to a great holiday outfit or accessory from Evergreen. 

Roast Chestnuts on an Open Fire

Experience a centuries-old American tradition at a one-of-a-kind historic attraction! Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire at Santa’s Candy Castle is a popular event year after year. It’s also a reminder to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Gathering around a fire, learning about the tradition, and even tasting chestnuts, are great ways to pause and appreciate the season. PRO TIP: Arrive early to grab a hot cocoa from inside Santa’s Candy Castle—there are 35 flavors to choose from! 

Plan the Perfect Holiday Getaway

During the first three weekends of December, families can take advantage of holiday packages and stay at festive lodging to extend the weekend magic. Santa’s Lakeside Cottages, Lincoln Pines Lakefront Resort, Santa’s Lodge, and Sun Outdoors Lake Rudolph offer special packages during the Santa Claus Christmas Celebration with great “extras,” like vehicle passes to the Santa Claus Land of Lights or Christmas Dinner with Santa. PRO TIP: Grab some delicious donuts from the bakery inside the local grocery store, Holiday Foods, to make your weekend even sweeter! 

Experience Annual Events

Each year the town of Santa Claus features an array of special events that are worthy of your traditions bucket list. From the Santa Claus Christmas Parade to a Live Reindeer Exhibit at Santa’s TOYS to the Santa Claus Arts & Crafts Show at Heritage Hills Middle School, weekends are filled with festive events throughout the Santa Claus, Indiana, area. See the full lineup of scheduled Christmas events to start building your itinerary! PRO TIP: One of the best places to watch the Santa Claus Christmas Parade is on Patricia Koch Boulevard so arrive early to claim your spot! 

Make the Season Merry... and Memorable 

The best traditions are the ones shared with the people most special to you. So, no matter which Christmas traditions you participate in—whether ones in your own home or those here in Santa Claus, Indiana—you’re sure to have a merry and memorable holiday when you’re gathered together!