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Here is my not-even-a-post-just-a-list roundup of places to see Santa in Winchester this season (links included – click on the title of each one). Hopefully next year I’ll be able to expand it to include non-Santa Christmas events!

• Mall Santa photos – If you want the traditional, you-know-what-you’re-getting-but-you’ll-pay-for-it, old school experience, here you go! They have a train as well (for a fee).

• Clearbrook lights –  A local tradition! You  pay for entrance to the park, where you walk through a light experience, Nov 29 – Dec29. Free hot chocolate is included, and Santa is in his house ready to take requests from the kids. (You are welcome to take your own pictures) *pro tip* Go during the week!

• Solenberger’s Hardware – Solenberger’s is another local favorite – a hardware store with a heart for being a part of the community! Every Saturday in December (7, 14, 21) from 10-2 Santa will be in the store. A professional photographer will be on hand and will give you your photo free of charge. On the 21st there will be a meet and greet with the Toy Story characters at the same time!

• Chick-Fil-A – Tuesday, Dec. 3rd Chick-Fil-A at Rutherford Crossing will host an ugly sweater party with Christmas music, magic tricks, crafts, and Santa! Wear an ugly sweater, get a free entree.

• United Way Free Photos with Santa – This popular event has been moved to the George Washington hotel this year on December 7 from 10-1. Professional photos will be available for free (digital download) or you can bring your own camera – or both!

• Clarke County Parks and Rec – Kids can have cookies and milk while listening to Santa read a story on Dec 7th at 10:00! Santa will stick around for bring-your-own-camera photo ops. Cost is $3 per child. If you want to make a day out of it, you can head downtown for the Christmas parade at noon.

• West Oaks Farm Market – Santa is coming to West Oaks on December 7 from 10-2! They will have a gingerbread man decorating craft and other kid activities. Bring your own camera for free pictures!

• Old Town Winchester Holly Jolly Celebration – Our downtown puts on really fun events and this is one people look forward to all year! Happening on December 14, Santa will be in his HQ at the Godfrey Miller House from 10-2. Another major draw to this event are the horse-drawn carriage rides – tickets are timed and free, but they go FAST so get there early!

•  George Washington Hotel – Saturday December 14th your family can enjoy a breakfast buffet, entertainment, and a visit with Santa in style! There are two seatings – 8:30 am and 11:30 am – and tickets range from $10-$30.

• Marker-Miller -December 14th you can have Donuts with Santa at Marker-Miller Farm Market from 11-2!  Bring your camera to take your own pictures – there will also be ornament making, a toy shop, and the cow train decorated for the holiday.

• Long Branch Historic House and Farm – Decorate a cookie and visit with Santa – $5 per person, but 10 & under are free. (I didn’t see anything about pictures, so I would assume you should bring a camera to take your own)

• North Mountain Fire and Rescue – Breakfast with Santa! Dec 14th from 9-12. Pancakes, sausage, gravy, fried apples, and eggs will be served and proceeds help sponsor a family for the holidays ($5/$7)