Santa Claus Makes a Layover at the Visitors Center!

Santa Claus is making a special stop in Garrett County, and he's bringing plenty of holiday cheer with him!

Before his big Christmas Eve flight, Santa is taking a break from his busy schedule at the North Pole to make a layover at the Garrett County Visitors Center! The Garrett County North Pole Chamber of Commerce invites families to join us for our first-ever Santa Makes a Layover at the Visitors Center, a festive afternoon filled with holiday fun, sweet treats, and opportunities to make lasting memories.

Children will have the chance to meet Santa Claus himself, pose for photos, and share their Christmas wishes. But keep an eye out! We've heard the Grinch might be making an appearance, too!

Families can also enjoy a variety of holiday activities, including:

• - Photos with Santa & the Grinch: Capture special holiday memories with two familiar Christmas characters!
• - Cookies & Treats: Enjoy something sweet while celebrating the season.
• - Holiday Goodie Bags: A little extra Christmas cheer for the kids!
• - Christmas Crafts: Get creative with fun, hands-on holiday activities.
• - Letters to Santa: Help make sure your Christmas wish list reaches the North Pole!

Help Us Spread Holiday Cheer!

The holidays are also a time for giving! Families are encouraged to bring donations of nonperishable canned goods and personal hygiene products, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, and feminine hygiene products. All collected items will be distributed to local charities to help neighbors in need this holiday season.

Keep the Holiday Memories Going!

Can't make it on November 30? The Visitors Center will feature festive holiday photo backdrops available for families to enjoy through December 29, 2026. Stop by during regular Visitors Center hours and snap some holiday photos of your own!

Thank You to Our Sponsors!

This special holiday celebration is made possible with the generous support of:

• - Deep Creek Shop 'n Save Fresh Featuring Mountain Flour Bakery 
• - Hook Line & Lake Outdoor Store
• - Christmas Chalet

Join us for an afternoon of holiday magic as we welcome our most famous North Pole visitor to Mountain Maryland!