Children look up to their parents, superheroes, and even Santa Claus, so it’s not surprising for them to want to meet one that looks like them.
Where can I find Black Santa in DC and across the DMV?
Black Santa Claus DC and around DMV will be bringing joy in the following areas:
- Shops at Iverson Mall
- Mall at Prince George’s
- Mondawmin Mall
- Neiman Marcus at the Tysons Galleria
Why is Black Santa important?
Until the second grade, I wanted to be the tooth fairy when I got older. In my mind, it was a job like any other. Engineer, firefighter, tooth fairy – these were all legitimate options, right? You couldn’t tell me that the tooth fairy wasn’t a real person because where’s the magic in that?
Imagine how I felt when I realized that the tooth fairy had to be a petite, Caucasian female because that’s how she was portrayed any time I came across her. I was sad for a bit, but I licked my wounds and focused on being the next Jasmine instead.
Fast forward to the holidays, and it was clear that magic wasn’t limited to fairies. Santa Claus, who flew in from the North Pole to deliver presents, was another figure who brought joy and wonder. The chance to visit Santa, share Christmas wishes, and capture those unforgettable holiday memories became a cherished tradition. It reminded me that representation matters—whether it’s the tooth fairy, Santa, or anyone else spreading magic, they should reflect the diversity of the world they inspire.
Black Santa Near Me in the DMV
It’s important for children to see their idols in a way they relate to, whether it be the color of their skin or how a person is differently-abled. Whether you call him Santa Claus or Saint Nicholas, representation matters, especially during the holiday season. This year, why not make your holiday party extra special by visiting one of the DMV’s malls where children can meet a Black Santa Nicholas? These events offer wonderful photo opportunities, allowing families to capture meaningful moments that reflect the diversity and joy of the season.
Mall at Prince George’s
- Address: 3500 East-West Hwy, Hyattsville, MD 20782 | Website
The holiday season at the Mall at Prince George’s is magical for little ones, especially when they see that Santa Claus looks just like them. For decades, the mall has delighted children with an African-American Santa Claus, spreading joy and widening smiles during this special time of year.
Here, Santa Claus represents more than a jolly man with gifts—he embodies diversity and culture, making the holiday season even more meaningful for families and kids alike. This cherished tradition is a celebration that continues to inspire and bring joy for years to come.
Shops at Iverson Mall
- Address: 3737 Branch Ave, Hillcrest Heights, MD 20748 | Website
The Shops at Iverson Mall has a long history of hosting black Santas for the season – in fact, mall goers can’t remember when they didn’t have one visiting the mall.
People come from far and wide so their kids can sit on Santa’s lap—a Santa Claus they relate to—and tell him what they want for Christmas that year.
Mondawmin Mall
- Address: 2401 Liberty Heights Ave, Baltimore, MD 21215 | Website
For over 40 years, Santa Claus has delivered presents in spirit and smiles through the beloved Santa Luke. A cherished Christmas tradition for many Baltimore families, Santa Luke brings joy and cheer to children every holiday season.
At 73 years old, Lucas Durant stands as the longest-running Black Baltimore Santa Claus—perhaps even in the nation. With half his life spent spreading holiday magic, he continues to captivate kids eager to share whether they’ve been naughty or nice. Donning his crisp red suit, Santa Luke greets families at Mondawmin Mall, keeping the spirit of Santa Claus alive in every heartfelt moment.
Neiman Marcus at the Tysons Galleria
- Address: 2255 International Dr, McLean, VA 22102 | Website
In recent years, the Neiman Marcus at the Tysons Galleria has partnered with “Santa Just Like Me” to make sure they are more representative of the Washington DC-metro area communities.
Now, this being Neiman Marcus, you do need a paid ticket to enjoy Santa Warren at their store, which can set you back about $75 for a personal visit with Santa (5-10 minutes long). With the more expensive packages, you will get photos to take home, plus hot chocolate and cookies before you wander the store looking for gifts.
Black Santa Locator App
Still can’t find a Black Santa near you? Check out this Black Santa Locator app that a Black mother, Jihan Woods, created because she was fed up with not being able to find a Santa that looked like her and her children in her community.
Moms are all about fixing problems because if one of us has a problem, chances are many of the rest of us do too. Woods has found Black Santas across the country, and even a few abroad if you are traveling for the holidays.
More Black Santas in Virginia
- Black Santa in Hampton Roads, VA
- Miracle at Waterside Drive in Norfolk, VA
