Rochester Families: Here Comes Santa Claus Event Details Announced

As a dad with two kids, Christmas is always a special time of year for our family. We love hitting the road for giant holiday attractions like Minnesota's longest drive-thru light display, and we hit up the fun stuff closer to home too.

Rochester's 'Here Comes Santa Claus' event is a favorite of ours and attracts families from around southeast Minnesota. Details for the annual event which is a great way to kick off the Christmas season were just announced.

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Downtown Rochester's 'Here Comes Santa Claus' event is scheduled for Friday November 27th and features music, activities, games and an appearance from the big man and Mrs Claus.

Here Comes Santa Claus in downtown Rochester

• When: Friday, November 27 | 2:30 PM – 7:00 PM
• Where: Downtown Rochester (Chateau Theatre, Peace Plaza, & Galleria at University Square)
• Cost: Free community event

Rochester's Here Comes Santa Claus Event Schedule:

2:30 PM – 4:45 PM: Mrs. Claus’ Workshop at the Historic Chateau Theatre
Kick off the afternoon inside the Chateau with live nutcracker dancing from the Rochester Dance Company, festive music, family games, crafts, and story time with Mrs. Claus. Kids can also write their letters to Santa and check out games at the Polar Pitstop at North Stone Kitchen.

5:00 PM: The Great Santa Rescue
Head outside to watch Santa make his dramatic entrance and watch the Rochester Fire Department rescue him from the top of the Residences of Old City Hall.

5:15 PM: Peace Plaza Holiday Tree Lighting
Once Santa is safely on the ground, the crowd is invited to the Peace Plaza for the official lighting of Downtown Rochester’s holiday tree.

5:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Photos with Santa & Cookies
Families can finish out the evening on the second floor of the Galleria at University Square. Guests can grab free cookies and get their photos taken with Santa.