A perfect opportunity to ring in the holiday season. Join us in this annual tradition of welcoming Santa to Downtown Ithaca!

Santa and his elves enter Downtown Ithaca is the most unique way possible: rappelling down from the top of Center Ithaca!

Prior to Santa's arrival, enjoy festive live music and performances. Then, have your photo taken with Santa at this free family event.

Santa's Schedule

11:00 am: Enjoy live entertainment featuring performances by United Dance Troupe and the Fall Creek Brass Band.
12:00pm: Santa and his elves will rappel down from the roof of Center Ithaca onto Trolley Circle. Don't be late!
12:15 pm - 3:00 pm: Santa will pose for photos on his sleigh outside at the Bernie Milton Pavilion (FREE, please bring your camera or phone to snap photos )

Hot Cocoa Bar

Stay warm and toasty with tasty hot cocoa for sale at Trolley Circle all throughout, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

Letters to Santa at Alphabet Soup

All-day during store hours, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, while waiting for Santa to arrive kids can stop in at Alphabet Soup to write and mail their letters to Santa.  While there, purchase a toy to donate.  Alphabet Soup has partnered with local organizations to collect toys for local kids.

More information about Letters to Santa

Winter Lights Festival Activities

Come back later to celebrate the last night of the Winter Lights Festival on December 11th!  Silent Disco, Ice Bar, Cocoa Bar, and live entertainment for all ages.