Petaluma Downtown Association

Event:

Santa's Coming to Town… by Boat! Petaluma's Holiday Riverboat Arrival

Come for Santa, stay for the shopping and live entertainment, and kick off the holiday season with a boatload of fun!

Petaluma

The Rundown

Event Start Date:
November 28, 2026
Takes Place:
Event End Date:
November 28, 2026
Start Time:
11:00 am
End Time:
01:30 pm
Is the event free?
Yes
Event Price:
Reservations Required:
No
Location:
River Plaza Shopping Center
,
Petaluma

Forget the sleigh and reindeer! Santa and Mrs. Claus are making a splash in Petaluma this holiday season, arriving in true river-town style—aboard a tugboat cruising up the Petaluma River!

​

Bring the whole family to downtown Petaluma on Saturday, November 28th, for the beloved Santa's Riverboat Arrival, a festive tradition filled with holiday magic, music, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. The fun kicks off at 11:30am with live holiday music from the Pacific Empire Chorus. Around noon, Santa and Mrs. Claus will sail into the Turning Basin, where they'll receive a warm welcome from costumed dancers from the Petaluma School of Ballet's Nutcracker.

​

Then it's time for the main event! Follow Santa and Mrs. Claus to their festive tent outside Taps on the River for family photos, holiday wishes, and a little North Pole magic. Just don't forget your Christmas wish lists!

​

And since it's also Small Business Saturday, keep the holiday cheer going with a stroll through historic downtown Petaluma. Browse charming boutiques, discover unique gifts, support local merchants, and grab a bite at one of the town's many restaurants.

​

Come for Santa, stay for the shopping, and kick off the holiday season with a boatload of fun!

More Upcoming Events