5 Cozy Bookstores Hosting Letters to Santa in Seattle, Boston, and NYC

There’s something special about a cozy bookstore during the holidays the soft light, the scent of paper, and the hum of quiet joy. This year, a few beloved independent bookstores are making the season even brighter by inviting kids (and adults who still believe) to drop off their Letters to Santa. These shops aren’t just selling books; they’re creating small pockets of magic where imagination meets tradition. Whether you’re in Seattle, Boston, or New York City, you can step into these warm spaces and rediscover the childlike wonder of the season.

1. The Elliott Bay Book Company, Seattle

At this Capitol Hill landmark, you’ll find more than shelves lined with local authors and handwritten staff picks. The Elliott Bay Book Company transforms its children’s section into a holiday nook filled with twinkling lights and a bright red mailbox for Letters to Santa. You can pick up free stationery, sip hot cocoa from the café, and let kids write their wishes while surrounded by storybook charm. The staff even sends select letters to the North Pole, keeping the spirit alive with small surprises and holiday readings for families.

2. Queen Anne Book Company, Seattle

This small, family-owned shop on Queen Anne Avenue creates a heartwarming corner each December for kids to pen their Letters to Santa. The cozy atmosphere, complete with garlands and a flickering fireplace display, makes it easy to linger while browsing winter reads. You’ll often find volunteers helping little ones spell out their wishes or add creative touches with stickers and stamps. Once letters are sealed and dropped into Santa’s mailbox, each child receives a small holiday bookmark to take home as a keepsake.

3. Brattle Book Shop, Boston

One of the oldest bookstores in America, Brattle Book Shop brings history and nostalgia together with its Letters to Santa tradition. Its outdoor book stalls get wrapped in festive garlands, and the store invites visitors to write notes to Santa amid shelves stacked with vintage holiday tales. You can browse rare editions of “A Christmas Carol” or “The Night Before Christmas” before mailing your own letter. The staff also hosts a special “Santa’s Saturday” where readers share stories and warm cider in the crisp winter air.

4. Brookline Booksmith, Boston

In the heart of Coolidge Corner, Brookline Booksmith turns its basement level into a holiday hub for young writers. Kids can write or draw their wish lists at craft tables surrounded by picture books and fairy lights. The shop encourages creativity, letting children decorate their envelopes before sending them off to Santa’s mailbox near the checkout counter. Parents can browse thoughtfully curated gift books upstairs, and everyone leaves feeling part of a small, joyful tradition that celebrates imagination and kindness.

5. Books Are Magic, Brooklyn

This community favorite in Cobble Hill brings whimsy to its annual Letters to Santa display. Inside, a bright red mailbox sits beside a mural of magical creatures and snow scenes painted by local artists. Children are welcome to write their letters, decorate them with glitter pens, and drop them off for Santa’s helpers to collect. You can also join a weekend storytime featuring holiday classics and live readings from local authors. It’s the kind of neighborhood event that makes you slow down and smile, no matter your age.