Looking for the perfect way to kick off the holiday season? East Hampton Village has you covered with SantaFest—a magical, family-friendly celebration packed with festive activities, delicious treats, and unforgettable memories! On December 7th, join locals and visitors alike for a full day of holiday cheer that you won’t want to miss.
From Santa’s grand entrance to a holiday market and tree lighting ceremony, SantaFest has something for everyone. Here’s everything you need to know about this incredible event.
Santa’s Spectacular Helicopter Arrival
Start your day with an event unlike any other! At 11:00 AM, Santa is set to make his grand entrance at Herrick Park (67 Newtown Lane) in true East Hampton style—by helicopter! That’s right, the jolly man in red is skipping the sleigh for a high-flying entrance you’ll want to see. Bring your family and friends to witness the excitement unfold and help welcome Santa to the Village.
Where: Herrick Park, 67 Newtown Lane
When: 11:00 AM
🎁 Extras
Free holiday treats for kids
Live festive music and entertainment
This free event is open to everyone, so be sure to arrive early to grab a good spot!
The Holiday Market
Once Santa has officially landed, head over to Village Hall (86 Main Street) for the Holiday Market running from 11 AM to 4 PM. Stroll through a carefully curated selection of local vendors offering unique gifts, stocking stuffers, and handcrafted items to make your holiday shopping a breeze. And don’t miss the free gift-wrapping station, courtesy of the Ladies Village Improvement Society.
Where: Village Hall Front Yard, 86 Main Street
When: 11 AM to 4 PM
🎁 Market Highlights
Gingerbread house competition
Hot cider and delicious seasonal treats
Santa’s Parade
At NOON, the festive energy continues with the Santa Parade, East Hampton Village’s biggest parade of the year! Watch as Santa leads a lively procession down Main Street and Newtown Lane, with creative floats, marching bands, and entertainment that’s sure to leave you smiling.
Where: Main Street and Newtown Lane
When: Starts at NOON
🎶 Parade Perks
Bring the whole family to line the streets, wave to Santa, and take in the magical floats and holiday-themed performances.
Santa’s Workshop
After the parade, the fun moves to Millstone Park (61 Main Street) from 1 PM to 4 PM, where your little ones can meet Santa Claus himself! Chat with Santa about their wish lists and take professional photos—all for free.
Where: Millstone Park, 61 Main Street
When: 1 PM to 4 PM
📸 Special Features
Free family photos with Santa
Lines for the meet-and-greet begin at NOON
Candyland at The Huntting Inn
For those with a sweet tooth, head over to Candyland at The Huntting Inn (91 Main Street) between 1 PM and 4 PM. Kids can decorate holiday donuts provided by Grindstone Donuts while enjoying milk and cheerful vibes. It’s the perfect way to add a little sugar and spice to the day's festivities!
Where: The Huntting Inn, 91 Main Street
When: 1 PM to 4 PM
🍩 Highlights
Holiday donut decorating
Milk and donuts provided
Mrs. Claus’ Pony Rides
Don’t forget to make a stop at the Ladies Village Improvement Society (95 Main Street) to meet Mrs. Claus and enjoy free pony rides in the front yard! From 1 PM to 4 PM, this memorable activity is guaranteed to delight kids big and small.
Where: LVIS, 95 Main Street
When: 1 PM to 4 PM
🎄 Extras
Meet Mrs. Claus in person
Special treats from the North Pole
Free Holiday Movie Screening
Celebrate the season with a free screening of the holiday classic, The Grinch, at the East Hampton Middle School Auditorium (76 Newtown Lane). Grab some popcorn and cozy up with family and friends for this heartwarming movie.
Where: Middle School Auditorium, 76 Newtown Lane
When: Showings at 1 PM and 3 PM
Tickets are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis at the school’s box office.
Cookies & Canvas at Guild Hall
Unleash your creativity with Cookies & Canvas, a fun-filled holiday event at Guild Hall (158 Main Street). Decorate cookies, compete for prizes, and explore professional tips from local pastry artists.
Where: Guild Hall, 158 Main Street
When: Check event times
🎨 Why You’ll Love It
Prizes for the most creative designs
Take your creations home for a sweet treat later
Tree Lighting Ceremony
Wrap up SantaFest with a magical Tree Lighting Ceremony back at Herrick Park. At Newtown Lane, gather with the community to watch Mayor Jerry Larsen—and a special surprise guest—light up the village’s spectacular 30-foot holiday tree.
Where: Herrick Park, 67 Newtown Lane
When: Evening
🎶 A Night to Remember
Performances by local carolers
Announcements for the Holiday Window Decorating Contest winners
Don’t Miss SantaFest 2024!
SantaFest in East Hampton Village is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of community, joy, and the holiday spirit. From Santa's sky-high arrival to the glittering tree lighting, there's no better place to create cherished seasonal memories with your loved ones.