Santa Sunday 2025 at Sunday River: The Ultimate Guide to Maine’s Most Iconic Holiday Ski Tradition

Imagine a mountain peak swathed in fresh Maine powder, suddenly overtaken by a sea of crimson and white. It’s not a mirage—it’s Santa Sunday 2025, the most visually spectacular and heartwarming holiday event in New England. Every December, the slopes of Sunday River Resort transform into a living holiday card. Over 250 fully costumed Santas glide down the mountain in a synchronized display of festive cheer.

Whether you are an avid skier, a professional photographer, or a family looking for the ultimate Christmas memory, Santa Sunday is a bucket-list winter experience that captures the true soul of Maine.

🎄 The Magic Returns: December 14, 2025

Mark your calendars! The “Great Santa Swarm” is scheduled to take over the mountain for another record-breaking year of holiday antics.

• Date: Sunday, December 14, 2025

• Time: 11:00 AM (Sharp!)

• Location: Sunday River Resort, 15 South Ridge Road, Newry, Maine 04261

• Phone: (207) 824-3000

🎅 The Santa Requirements: How to Join the Pack

Participating in Santa Sunday is a serious (and seriously fun) commitment to the holiday spirit. To qualify for the event and the associated perks, every participant must arrive in full Santa attire. This isn’t just a hat-and-go situation; Sunday River requires:

1. A classic red Santa hat with a white pompom.

2. A red Santa jacket (no hoodies allowed!).

3. Red Santa pants (no red jeans or sweatpants).

4. A full, bushy white Santa beard.

Pro-Tip: Pre-registration is mandatory and spots usually sell out within minutes of being released. If you want to be one of the 250+ skiing Santas, you must stay glued to the Sunday River website in early November!

🎿 The Iconic Group Photo & Santa Run

At precisely 11:00 AM, the red-suited army gathers slopeside at South Ridge for a massive group photoshoot. This image—a wall of Santas against the backdrop of the Maine Highlands—is the defining photo of the Maine ski season.

Following the photo, the Santas board the South Ridge Express and embark on the “Santa Run” down Broadway. This scenic green trail allows Santas of all skill levels to participate, creating a flowing river of red that spectators can watch from the base area.

⭐ New for 2025: The Christmas Buddy Voucher

This year, Sunday River is spreading even more holiday joy to those who suit up. Every registered Santa will receive a Buddy Voucher loaded into their online account.

• Validity: December 15, 2025 – January 31, 2026 (excluding Saturdays and vacation weeks).

• The Gift: This voucher can be used to bring a friend for a day of skiing or kept for a personal return trip later in the season!

👀 Best Spots for Spectators

You don’t have to wear a beard to enjoy the magic. Spectators should arrive at the South Ridge base area by 10:30 AM to secure a prime viewing spot for the group photo and the start of the parade. It’s an incredible atmosphere filled with holiday music, laughter, and the shared excitement of the first big event of the winter.

🛷 Plan Your Winter Weekend in Bethel & Newry

Make a weekend of it! The towns of Bethel and Newry are quintessential Maine mountain villages.

• Dine: Warm up with après-ski snacks at Barker Lodge.

• Explore: Take a stroll through downtown Bethel to see the holiday lights.

• Stay: Look for holiday lodging packages at the Jordan Hotel or Grand Summit to stay right in the heart of the action.

🌲 What to Do in the Moosehead Lake Region & Beyond

If you’re traveling through the state for the holidays, you’ll find that the Moosehead Lake area has its own special brand of winter magic once you head inland. It’s a wonderful area for people who want to truly unplug and take in the natural beauty of the Maine Highlands. Whether you’re interested in checking out the local snowmobile trails or finding a quiet spot for ice fishing, it’s a great way to see a more rugged side of the state.

🏡 Your Basecamp for Adventure: Moose River Lookout

If your winter travels take you toward Rockwood, we’d love to have you check our availability and see if our home fits your plans. Moose River Lookout is nestled right on the water, providing a cozy sanctuary for families and nature lovers alike.

When you stay with us, you’re right in the middle of the action with direct access to the ITS66 trails. You also have a private dock for your winter fishing needs. Our cabin is fully equipped for the Maine winter—complete with a backup generator and high-speed WiFi. So you can enjoy the wilderness without losing the comforts of home.

📞 Connect With Us

• Phone: 800-544-0300

• Email: [email protected]

• Address: 4054 Rockwood Rd, Rockwood, ME 04478

• Website: Moose River Lookout

Sunday River’s Santa Sunday is the ultimate kickoff to the holiday season. We’ll see you on the slopes!