Illustration of Santa in a knitted red suit in a wooden armchair as two small children show him paper lists by a fireplace (Santa's Riverboat Arrival & Small Business Saturday)

Santa's Riverboat Arrival & Small Business Saturday

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

Experience a truly unique holiday tradition as Santa and Mrs. Claus make their grand entrance to Petaluma by tugboat! Arriving on the Petaluma River, they'll dock at the Turning Basin and head to the River Plaza Shopping Center for photos and festive fun. Enjoy live music and a special welcome by ballet dancers before sharing your Christmas wishes with Santa. Afterward, embrace the spirit of Small Business Saturday by exploring the charming shops in historic downtown Petaluma.

Map It Details

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Plan Your Visit

Last year

Tickets

$

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Downtown Petaluma

Featured Performers

  • Pacific Empire Chorus
  • Petaluma School of Ballet

Food & Drink

Not specified, but likely available in downtown Petaluma.

Parking

Parking available at River Plaza Shopping Center and in historic downtown Petaluma.

Going?

Location

See it and nearby events on the map
River Plaza Shopping Center · Petaluma, CA Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, holiday shoppers

Vibe

Festive, community-oriented, welcoming

Energy Level

Low to medium

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Medium

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, as they depart promptly at 1:30 PM.
  • Bring your Christmas wish list to share with Santa and Mrs. Claus during your visit.
  • Consider wearing layers as the event takes place in late November, and the weather can be unpredictable.
  • Take advantage of the free Petaluma Transit buses to easily travel between the River Plaza and historic downtown.
  • Combine your visit with exploring the shops and restaurants in historic downtown Petaluma for a full day of holiday enjoyment.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Support local merchants on Small Business Saturday
  • Take advantage of shop small benefits with American Express

Links & Contact

Run by Petaluma Downtown Association

Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does Santa arrive?

Santa and Mrs. Claus are scheduled to arrive around noon.

Where can I take photos with Santa?

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for photos in a festive tent outside Taps on the River in the River Plaza Shopping Center.

What happens after Santa's arrival?

After Santa's departure, you are encouraged to visit historic downtown Petaluma to support local merchants for Small Business Saturday.

Is there live entertainment?

Yes, the Pacific Empire Chorus will provide live entertainment while families wait for Santa's arrival, and costumed dancers from the Petaluma School of Ballet will welcome him.

What is the best way to get around downtown?

Petaluma Transit buses offer free rides, making it easy to travel between the River Plaza and the historic downtown area.

Browse Christmas in Petaluma

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

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