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It’s officially holiday season, which means Christmas music everywhere and tons of Santa iconography. But where can you go to actually meet Santa? Up in the woods outside of Big Bear, of course! That’s where you’ll find SkyPark at Santa’s Village, the reborn children’s fantasyland that includes the bearded man himself, plus lots of (sometimes fake) snow, reindeer, and sweet Christmas treats galore.
Actually there’s a whole host of food to enjoy at the park, from savory to sweet alike. Here’s what to eat at Santa’s Village, which reopens today after decades away.
First up is St. Nick’s Patio & Grille, an outdoor dining option for burgers and salads and the like. This is your family-friendly lunchtime option, complete with fire pits to keep people warm. After that there’s The Pedal Pub, with heavy wood stools, more patio seating, and an outdoor bar. This being California, expect craft beer to go along with those sliders and stuff.
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Perhaps most notable is Gatherings, a finer dining option right inside the park. Full of woodsy charm (yep, there’s even some animals hanging from the cabin walls inside), this is a bistro option for parents nestled into a log cabin-type atmosphere. There will be beer and wine, plus table service and an "elegant ambiance."
On the sweets side, your first stop may well be The Gingerbread House, which offers pastries, other baked goods, and hot chocolate. This was formerly the beloved Good Witch’s Bakery, but has been reclaimed with an even more Christmas tie-in, frosted roof and all. Expect wraparound outdoor stools for all.
Then there’s K’s Kandyshoppe and Creamery, a more candy-focused offering for the kids. That’s where you’ll get confections and lollypops and ice cream and more, with a more takeaway bent. And, finally, Kringle’s Coffee and Gifts, your last stop out the door after meeting Old Saint Nick himself. Top up with a bit of caffeine and some trinkets from the gift shop before making the trek back to the city. Apparently you can even get takeaway premade lunch options should you decide to continue on deeper into the wilderness for a day hike.
SkyPark at Santa’s Village officially reopens today, so expect long lines and big booming business these next few weeks. Want in? You’ll have to get tickets.
SkyPark at Santa’s Village
28950 California 18
Skyforest, CA
