Holiday in the City events will be 4-8 p.m.
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Candy Land a sweet addition
The area got its first sweet taste of Candy Land last year in the library’s rotunda and the enthusiastic response surprised even library public relations manager Allison Peck.
“We anticipated a lot, but not that many. We estimated we had over 500 children, 800 altogether with adults, which we were glad for,” she said.
The object is the same as the popular board game, to advance spaces in search of missing King Kandy with stops at places like Gumdrop Mountain and Candy Cane Forest, a fitting place for the season. Players can earn candy as a reward.
The emphasis was making everything life-size. Staff members helped paint the backgrounds and create costumes.
“We’d never done anything like that but we had a conception,” Peck said. “We wanted something all ages could enjoy. Some went through multiple times.”
Peck and the library staff made adjustments to improve the experience. There is plenty of space for wheelchairs and strollers and accommodations for 1,000 visitors.
There will also be new prizes including giant Pixie Stix and activities for those waiting in line. Peck said the line moves rather quickly and the wait could be possibly a half-hour.
The game itself goes 10-15 minutes and all ages can enjoy it. Doors will close at 5 p.m. but anyone in line can still go through.
“We’re really excited to do this again,” Peck said.
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SantaLand brings the North Pole to Springfield
The holidays aren’t complete without a visit to Santa Claus and the Heritage Center of Clark County’s SantaLand has helped with wish lists for several years. The ambiance changes a little every year, according to Historical Society CEO Roger Sherrock.
It may be extra special this year considering the building suffered damage from a water disaster last spring and underwent extensive, now mostly completed.
“It really showcases the uniqueness of this building. It’s important for us to get people in to see the character in this building,” Sherrock said.
It’s a chance to see Santa before he leads the parade to the tree lighting later in the evening during Holiday in the City activities. SantaLand will also be open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 14 and 21.
“It gives the staff great satisfaction to see the smiles on kids’ faces. We hope all the community comes out,” Sherrock said.
Mother Stewart’s add Holiday Shopping Extravaganza
A new addition to Holiday in the City attractions will be a Holiday Shopping Extravaganza at Mother Stewart’s Brewing Co., 109 W. North St., 4-9 p.m.
A selection of locally made gifts will be available. It can also be a way to get in out of the weather to enjoy a warm or cold beverage.
For more information on Holiday in the City and various activities, go to www.facebook.com/holidayinthecityspfld/.
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