It might not be an official designation, but “change” is the word of the year. Time continues to tick away and the holidays are right around the corner with new ways of honoring old traditions — including those that include a certain Jolly Old Elf.
Santa will be part of a unique physically distanced photo opportunity for families at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis — perfect for Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
He will sit in his sleigh preparing for flight as good little girls and boys pose alongside with their grownups. It could be the perfect new holiday card to send to friends and family. Another picturesque option might be in front of the Yule Slide. While we can’t zip down it this year due to pandemic precautions, there will be giant stuffed animals serving as a charming backdrop. Don’t forget a festive mask that must remain on throughout the museum, including during photos.
Santa’s elite elves are teaming up celebrate the holidays in Jolly Days Winter Wonderland. Sure, some changes are afoot. But in addition to old favorites — like sock skating, climbing an ice castle, turning on and off colorful lights in the kitchen and make it snow inside a giant snow globe in the Sunburst Atrium — there are also several new experiences. This year, families will discover popular holiday movie and TV show clips in the kitchen, turning on candles of a menorah and making frost appear on windows of a new interactive display.
With the disruption of Santa’s supply chain this year, the elves need help getting ready for the Big Guy’s trip around the world. On select days, families can join Santa’s Workshop where they can decorate and assemble their own wooden toy, create a candy cane ornament, and design their own stationery to write a letter to Santa (registration fee required for this program).
Speaking of letters to Santa, children can now send him a virtual letter! Parents can visit childrensmuseum.org/santa to get started on wish lists. After kids send their letters, grown-ups can sign children up to receive personalized updates from Santa throughout the holiday season.
Those looking to ring in the New Year will want to mark their calendars for Countdown to Noon on December 31. Then, families can close their eyes and wash away the challenges of 2020 and splash into 2021 with North America’s largest water clock.
There is a lot to look forward to next year at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, including Dora & Diego, DC Superheroes, SUE the T.rex, Malala Yousafzai and another year of Barbie!
