So, you are thinking about sussing options on where to get your Santa photos in Melbourne? There are a few things to think about before heading out. Each venue has something different to offer. There are free Santa photos, package deals, pet Santa photos, indoor or outdoor Santa photos, the list goes on. Doing a bit of research can make the whole process a lot smoother and you can find just what you are looking for with this annual Melbourne Christmas tradition.
We suggest getting in as early as possible in the season to avoid the big crowds and lines. As there is often some waiting involved, either bring snacks or make sure the kids are fed and watered before you go. It is a good idea to talk to the children about what you are doing and even give Santa a wave each time you see him so the children become more familiar. To see a man in a big red suit and be expected to sit on his lap can be a bit confronting, so be prepared to be in the photo as well if needed!
We have put together a list of venues including Christmas shops around Melbourne where you can get your best Santa photos in Melbourne. Remember to check if you need to book in or you can just rock up.
Westfield Santa photos
Westfield Santa photos are one of the most popular places to get cute photos with Santa each year! While you are out shopping for Christmas earrings to match your new Christmas dress, why not stop in and get your Santa photos taken with the kids?
In Melbourne you can find Santa being snapped happily for Santa pics at the following Westfield locations:
Westfield Doncaster 2023
‘Tis’ the season to be making merry memories. Create a Christmas memory and book your photo with Santa at Westfield Doncaster. The much-loved tradition of visiting Santa will be balanced this year with ensuring the health and safety of the customers - and of course, Santa and his elves. All children who visit Santa will also receive a Christmas headpiece to take home.
When: 13 November – 24 December
Cost: See website for cost details.
There is more information on getting your Santa pics at Westfield Doncaster here.
Westfield Airport West 2023
Get in early for your Santa Photos! Avoid the last minute rush and pre-plan your Santa Photos and visit to Westfield Airport West. The online booking system lets you select a time and jump the queue on the day! All children who visit Santa will also receive a crown to take home.
When: 12 November – 24 December
Cost: See website for cost details.
Find more information on getting your Santa Claus photos at Westfield Airport West here.
Westfield Knox 2023
They are making Christmas merrier this year and bringing the magic of the North Pole to Westfield Knox with a visit from Santa! Santa will be there ready to meet the children and hear their wish lists before getting a photo. You can book in online. All children who visit Santa will also receive a Christmas headband to take home.
When: 12 November – 24 December
Cost: See website for cost details.
There is more information on getting your Santa pictures at Westfield Knox here.
Westfield Southland 2023
Santa is coming to Westfield Southland. He will be ready to welcome the children and families and is looking forward to hearing if you have been naughty or nice. You can book ahead online to avoid the long lines. All children who visit Santa will also receive a Christmas crown to take home.
When: 12 November – 24 December
Cost: See website for cost details.
You can find more details on getting your Santa pics at Westfield Southland here.
Westfield Fountain Gate 2023
Westfield Fountain Gate is looking forward to welcoming the big man in the red suit! Create your annual memories and let Santa know what is on everyone’s wishlist. You can book online ahead of time. All children who visit Santa will also receive a gift to take home.
When: 13 November – 24 December
Cost: See website for cost details.
There are more details on getting your best Santa photos at Westfield Fountain Gate here.
Myer Santa photos 2023
A trip to the Myer Christmas windows and then a photo at Myer Santaland is a favourite ritual for many Melbourne families. Myer SantaLand is a fun interactive playground including a steam locomotive train ride through a tunnel with snow, flashing crossway and illuminated rail signals. Santa will be there, and you can book the children in for a 10 minute session with him. There is time for a chat with the big man to let him know the Christmas list as well as capturing some beautiful Santa snaps.
When: 16 November – 24 December
Cost: See website for cost details.
You can find more details on getting some lovely Myer Santa photos here.
David Jones Santa Photos 2023
Join David Jones instore this Christmas for a premium Santa photo experience with their magical Christmas sets and real-life Santas at Bourke Street Mall Melbourne. All bookings will receive their photo in a custom designed David Jones frame and each child will receive a special reindeer antler headband from Santa himself.
When: 11 November – 24 December
There is more information about getting your David Jones Santa photos here.
Chadstone Santa photos
Capture every moment this Christmas with your personal Santa Photography experience at Chadstone. Discover talking reindeer, snowstorms, a giant Christmas tree and Santa himself at The Fashion Capital.
Online bookings are essential to secure a spot. With limited availability of sessions between 14 November and 24 December, be sure to book now to avoid disappointment.
When: 14 November and 24 December
Cost: See website for cost details
You can find more information on Chadstone Santa photos here.
Queen Victoria Markets Santa photos 2023
A highlight of the Merry Market Christmas celebrations is Saint Nick’s visit on 21, 22, 23 and 24 December. Say hello before enjoying the market’s other Yuletide pleasures, from shopping for Christmas food and gifts.
When: 21, 22, 23 & 24 December
Cost: See website for cost details
You can find more details on Queen Victoria Markets Santa photos here.
Pacific Werribee Santa Photos 2023
Dig out the Christmas costumes and festive props and gather your nearest and dearest – Santa’s heading to Pacific Werribee ready to have his photo taken. This time-honoured tradition is the perfect way to capture the festive memories for years to come. Whether you’re grabbing a snap with your nearest and dearest, your besties or your office team. To make the process simple, enjoy online bookings, and convenient pre-pay options.
When: 12 November – 24 December
Cost: See website for cost details
You can find more information on Pacific Werribee Santa Photos here.
Where to get free Santa photos in Melbourne
We know the costs can really add up at this time of year, so we have found where you can get free Santa photos in Melbourne in 2023 this year.
- Your local Christmas Markets
- Santa’s House at Christmas Square
- Your local Christmas Event
- Santa at The Atrium at Crown
- Kensington Santa Stop
Pet Santa photos in Melbourne
The jolly big man’s lap isn’t restricted to just children. Your dogs and cats are also welcome. If you’ve ever wanted a photo with Santa holding your pup or kitty, here’s your chance. We have put together a list of places to go to get your pet Santa photos in Melbourne here.
You have all the information you need to plan your best Santa photos ever! Go with the flow, as you know when you put children, pets and Santa together for a photo – you never quite know how it will go!
If facing the shopping malls doesn’t thrill you, check out our special Xmas presents gift guide for family and friends to fit your budget.
Check out our Christmas events in Melbourne here and if you are hoping to help someone in need this Christmas, check out our volunteering at Christmas article.
All the very best and a very Merry Christmas!
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