— Kick off the holiday season at Santa’s Sweet Story Time with Barnes & Noble —
Syracuse, NY (November 20, 2025) – Destiny USA is thrilled to welcome Santa Claus back to Central New York for the 2025 holiday season! Santa will officially arrive Friday, November 21st at 12:00 PM, making a grand entrance into the Canyon on Level 1 with the help of the Syracuse Fire Department. Families and children are invited to join the celebration as Santa greets guests, hands out candy canes, and takes his seat at his brand-new workshop location for the season. Santa will be welcomed by two hometown favorites, Otto from Syracuse University and Scooch from the Syracuse Mets, who will help kick off the holiday magic. Santa’s Arrival – supported by Oswego County Tourism.
Following his arrival, guests are invited to Santa’s Sweet Story Time, presented by Barnes & Noble. Families can enjoy a lively read-along of Elves Are the Worst! by Alex Willan, with Santa himself. The celebration will include festive treats, giveaways for kids, and plenty of holiday cheer throughout the Canyon. This free, family-friendly event runs from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM.
Santa’s Workshop will be located in the Canyon on Level 1. Families can create magical photo memories with Santa, brought to you by Cherry Hill Programs (CHP), North America’s premier provider of experiential holiday photography. Reservations are encouraged and can be made at WhereIsSanta.com. Walk-ups are welcome based on availability. Santa’s full schedule is available at DestinyUSA.com/HolidayMagic.
Special Santa Events at Destiny USA:
- Arrival Event: Santa’s Sweet Storytime with Barnes & Noble
Friday, November 21st | 12PM-2PM
Welcome Santa as he arrives via the Syracuse Fire Department, then a read-along of Elves Are the Worst! by Alex Willan sponsored by Barnes & Noble.
- Breakfast with Santa at APEX Entertainment
Saturday, December 6th | 9AM-10:45AM
For just $15 per person, enjoy a delicious breakfast spread with pancakes, eggs, potatoes, sausage, juice, coffee, and more. Each guest will have the chance to take a photo with Santa, and kids will receive a holiday swag bag plus a 30-minute non-redemption arcade card. - Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster’s
Sunday, December 7th | 9AM-11AM
$25.99 per person, ticket includes breakfast banquet with unlimited soda, coffee, and tea, $10 Power Card with 3 hours of Unlimited Video Game Play, Elves-only access to D&B, photo with Santa, and activities.
- Pet Nights with Santa
Mondays | 5PM-7PM
November 24, December 1, December 8, December 15
Bring your furry friends to Santa’s Workshop for a special photo session! Capture the holiday spirit with the whole family. No fins, feathers, or scales please.
- Santa Cares – Sensory-Friendly Experience
Sunday, December 7 / 9:30AM – 10:30AM
Santa Cares offers a low-stimulation, sensory-friendly environment for children with sensory sensitivities. Reservations are required for this exclusive experience, ensuring a relaxed and comfortable visit for all.
Come celebrate the holiday season and create magical memories at Destiny USA’s Santa Magic! Don’t miss this special chance to experience the wonder of the holidays and capture timeless photos with Santa. For more information or to make a reservation, visit destinyusa.com/holidaymagic.