If there’s one event that defines December in East Hampton Village, it’s SantaFest—two full days of holiday sparkle, small-town charm, and that unmistakable out-east magic. And this year, the celebration returns bigger, brighter, and bursting with festive moments for every member of the family. Consider this your complete guide so you don’t miss a single highlight.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5TH — Sip, Shop, Sparkle
SantaFest weekend begins with a cozy kick-off on Friday evening.
Sip & Shop | 4–7 PM | East Hampton Village
• Holiday promotions, treats, and festive storefronts
• Dickens Carolers strolling Main Street
• Santa’s Elves setting up behind the scenes for Saturday’s big celebration
A perfect prelude before Saturday’s full-day lineup.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6TH — Santa Arrives by Helicopter
This is the moment everyone waits for each year — the memory kids talk about for weeks and the spectacle that sets East Hampton’s SantaFest apart.
Santa’s Helicopter Arrival | 11 AM | Herrick Park
At 10 AM, Herrick Park comes alive with:
• Festive beats from DJ Variale
• Free Dreesen’s Doughnuts and hot cocoa
• Games and community spirit from local groups
• A performance from the East Hampton Middle School Band
Then at 11 AM sharp, all eyes turn to the sky as Santa touches down in a helicopter straight from the North Pole — a signature East Hampton moment that never gets old.
The Santa Parade
12 PM | Main Street, led by Grand Marshal Jen Tarbett
Flowing down Main Street with Hugh King announcing each float from the corner of Newtown Lane and Hugh King Alley.
The Fifth Grade Leadership Council rides the Mayor’s float as this year’s judges. Winners are announced during the tree lighting later that evening.
Holiday Market at Village Hall
10 AM – 3 PM
A curated collection of local gifts, baked goodies, and festive finds.
• BonBon — the Official Candy of SantaFest
• LVIS offering free gift wrapping for Village purchases
• A visit from the USGA U.S. Open Trophy
Perfect for last-minute gifting or a mid-day browse.
Cookies, Ponies & Mrs. Claus at the LVIS
1 – 4 PM
Just across the street:
• Mrs. Claus greeting children with cookies
• Pony rides on the LVIS lawn
• A sweet, slower moment in the middle of the day
Photos with Santa
1 – 4 PM | Millstone lawn on Main Street
Santa will be available on his throne for keepsake photos courtesy of 27east Creative. If you’re aiming for the annual family shot, this is your window.
Candyland at Sam’s Pizza
1 – 4 PM
A true East Hampton classic transforms into a holiday dream:
• Make-your-own pizza
• Holiday cookie decorating
• Hot cocoa and BonBon treats
Kids love this one — plan accordingly.
“Elf” Movie Screening
2 – 4 PM | East Hampton Middle School
Warm up indoors with a community showing of Elf, complete with popcorn and BonBon candy.
North Pole Ice Bar at Smokey Buns
12 – 5 PM | Eastman Way
For the grown-ups:
• A hand-carved ice bar
• Seasonal cocktails from Smokey Buns mixologists
• A festive, cheeky stop while the kids enjoy activities around town
The Tree Lighting Ceremony
5 PM | Herrick Park
SantaFest ends with one of the most magical traditions on the East End.
• Mayor Larsen announces the winners of the parade and window decorating contest
• The tallest Christmas tree on Long Island lights up the park
• Families gather, village lights glow, and the whole day wraps in pure holiday warmth
