Write a Letter to Santa (and Learn About Operation Santa)
A handwritten letter to Santa is a classic holiday tradition. Here are tips for parents and kids, plus how the official USPS Operation Santa program works.
Please note: The Santa Hotline does NOT collect letters or personal data from children. We are not affiliated with USPS.
Letter writing tips
- Start with a friendly hello and tell Santa something good you did this year.
- List a few wishes, and maybe one wish for someone else.
- Ask Santa a question about the reindeer or the elves.
- Add a drawing. Santa keeps the best ones on the workshop wall!
- Parents: help with the envelope and keep personal details to what USPS asks for.
The official address
Santa Claus
123 Elf Rd.
North Pole, 88888
Key 2026 USPS dates
- September 14: letters accepted
- November 2: adopter registration opens
- November 16: letter adoption opens
- December 5: letters should be postmarked by this date
Dates as announced by USPS. Always confirm on the official site.
How Operation Santa works
- Kids write a letter with a parent's help and mail it to the official address.
- USPS reviews letters and removes personal details before sharing them.
- Registered adopters choose letters online and send gifts through USPS.
- Not every letter is adopted, so keep the magic alive at home too.
A simple letter template
Dear Santa, my name is ____. This year I am proud that I ____. For Christmas I wish for ____, ____ and ____. I also wish ____ for my family. Please say hi to the reindeer! Love, ____
Want to hear from Santa sooner?
Fill in a printable wish list, then call Santa with a parent's permission.
📞 Call SantaFrequently Asked Questions
Where do I mail a letter to Santa?
USPS lists the official address as Santa Claus, 123 Elf Rd., North Pole, 88888. Check the USPS Operation Santa site for current instructions.
When is the 2026 deadline?
USPS accepts letters starting September 14. Letters should be postmarked by December 5 to be part of Operation Santa.
Should my child include a return address?
Follow the current USPS instructions on the official site. Parents should decide what details to share.
Does The Santa Hotline collect letters?
No. We do not collect letters or any personal information from children. Letters go through USPS only.
Is The Santa Hotline part of USPS?
No. We are an independent family site and are not affiliated with USPS or Operation Santa.