By Heather Harrington
Tis the season to start making a list, checking it twice and making sure you have the right postage for it to make it to the North Pole. But who’s to say you have to wait until December 25th to see jolly Old Saint Nick?
There is no shortage of places all across Long Island where you can catch a glimpse of Santa Claus, put in a good word and get a picture taken with his elves. While families can find Santa’s workshops at most malls on the Island, here are a few off the beaten path.
A person dressed as Santa Claus admonishes Ryan, 8, left, and James, 10, Hennessy to be good at Macy's in New York on the day before Christmas, Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2008. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
Santa at the Cupcake Corner: If your more of a dessert person, have no fear, so is Santa! You and your family can share not only a picture, but a delicious mini cupcake of your choice with Santa at Cupcake Corner in Garden City on Dec. 12. 61 New Hyde Park Rd., Garden City. 516-328-2253.
Hick’s Nursery: This is considered one of the best holiday experiences for children. Not only can you take an animated walk through Santa’s workshop and see live reindeer (perhaps even the famous Rudolph), but there’s even a spot on the grounds where you can mail your letter to Santa and the big guy will personally answer straight from the North Pole! 100 Jericho Tpke., Westbury. 516-334-0066.
Old Westbury Gardens: This historic mansion decorates to the nines during the holiday; they have wreaths and arrangements, tons of lit trees and even period decorated rooms for your viewing pleasure. You and your children can share cookies and cider with Santa as well as partake in tons of different holiday crafts like making your own ornaments and wreaths. 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. 516-333-0048.
Whitepost Farms: Think getting your picture taken with Santa at the mall is too cliché? Well, how about taking a snapshot next to a real Christmas tree and John Deere tractor? Not only does Whitepost Farm offer a rugged take on a Christmas portrait, they also offer other holiday favorites such as an indoor animal farm, craft making and holiday shows. 250 Old Country Rd., Melville. 631-351-9373.
Santa and Caroling Hayride: Head on down to the Lewis Oliver Farm and join Santa on a hayride filled with caroling and hot chocolate on Dec. 13. Burt Avenue, Northport. 631-261-6320
Christmas at Sherwood Jayne: Not only will you get a full tour of the house and barn with Santa, but you and your family will be able to feed Snowball the pony and join in on lots of holiday crafts. 55 Old Post Rd., East Setauket.
Winter Wonderland: Bayville offers up the most fun when it comes to visiting Santa; they have loads of treats like an arcade, indoor rock climbing, a funhouse and lightshow. 8 Bayville Ave., Bayville. 516-628-TOYS.
Or send him a letter!
