The magic of the holiday season comes alive as the 18th annual Greenwich Reindeer Festival & Santa’s Workshop returns to Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses in Greenwich from Nov. 27 through Dec. 24. Presented by Jenny Allen and Kristen Studwell of Compass Real Estate, this cherished community tradition transforms the nursery into the “North Pole on North Street,” bringing families together for festive memories while supporting a meaningful cause.

This year’s theme, “Celebrating Family Traditions,” honors the generations of families who have made visiting Santa and his three live reindeer an annual holiday experience. Over the past 17 years, thousands of visitors have embraced the festival as a beloved seasonal tradition, returning year after year to share the wonder of the holidays with children, grandchildren and four-legged family members.

Guests can meet the reindeer, capture memorable photos with Santa and explore Santa’s Workshop, sponsored by Greenwich Pediatric Dental Group. Children can enjoy a reindeer coloring station and write letters to Santa while awaiting their turn for photos. Leashed dogs are welcome to join family portraits throughout the festival, with special doggy gift bags available thanks to participating pet-focused sponsors.

The festivities kick off with two “We’re Back Party Days” on Nov. 27 and 28, featuring live music, balloon artists, refreshments, food trucks, specialty vendors and visits from Rising Starr Horse Rescue. The celebration offers families an opportunity to enjoy the holiday atmosphere while exploring the nursery’s festive displays and seasonal offerings.

Beyond the holiday magic, the festival embraces the spirit of generosity. A portion of proceeds from Santa photos will benefit Kids In Crisis, a Greenwich-based nonprofit providing vital support to children and families throughout Connecticut. Visitors can also participate in the Kids In Crisis Giving Tree, extending the season’s spirit of giving to those in need.

To commemorate the festival’s 18th anniversary, organizers invite families to share photographs from past visits, celebrating the memories and traditions created over the years. Selected photos may be featured on the festival’s social media pages, highlighting the meaningful connections that keep families returning.

The reindeer will remain through Dec. 23, while Santa will welcome visitors through Christmas Eve. With its blend of holiday wonder, community connection and charitable giving, the Greenwich Reindeer Festival continues to celebrate the joy of togetherness and the traditions that make the season special.

Location: Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses, 437 North St., Greenwich. Dates: Nov. 27-Dec. 24. Santa photos: noon to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Christmas Eve. Closed Sundays. Parking is free. Photo packages and additional information are available at GreenwichReindeerFestival.com. Families wishing to share past festival photographs may email [email protected]. See ad, back cover.