Kids’ Kolumn:Christmas Cheer in the Coastal Empire
Remember the feeling of wonder and excitement that the Christmas season once inspired in your young heart as a child? The scents of pine trees and gingerbread cookies. The chipper music and glittering lights. The stuffed stockings and pretty presents. Children grow to love wintertime iconography and all of the fanciful traditions that come with it. The long-awaited holiday break from school is merely days away, so now is the perfect time to fill your calendar with fun festivities that the whole family can joy. Tybee kicked off this holiday season with family favorites like the Lights On for Tybee Celebration, the Christmas Parade and the House of the Christmas Mouse. Though these awesome events are behind us, we are just on the cusp of season’s gifts when it comes to holiday happenings in the Lowcountry. Deck the halls, round up your little ones and get ready to enjoy the best of the holiday season. Mark your calendars for these family-friendly Christmastime festivities!
Enchanted Holiday Princess Tea
Every year, the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa teams up with the Savannah Harbor Foundation to present the annual Savannah Harbor Holiday Series. This spirited series is chocked full of awesome holiday concerts, dinners and more. While many of the events appeal to an adult audience, there are a few productions that are made especially for the little ones. One noteworthy new addition that your child surely won’t want to miss is the Enchanted Holiday Princess Tea. Taking place on Dec. 9 from 11 am to 1 pm in the Westin’s beautiful Grand Ballroom, this special event will feature an ornate display of tea party pastries. Your child can dine decadently in the company of her most favorite story-time princesses. Don your best regalia and look forward to a special season’s greeting from St. Nick. Be sure to get your tickets before time runs out!
A Lighthouse Christmas
Brought to you by the Tybee Island Historical Society, A Lighthouse Christmas is a Tybee holiday favorite that is a must for the whole family this season. Revisit days of yore at the Lighthouse Station, and experience celebrated Christmas traditions that were kept by the lighthouse’s last keeper, who occupied the station in the 30’s and 40’s. Enjoy caroling, twinkling lights and hot cider. A Lighthouse Christmas will be held during the evenings on Dec. 9 and 16. Your child will learn a lot at this humble holiday event.
Tybee Island Tour de Christmas Lights Bike Parade
Even if your kiddo doesn’t quite know how to ride a bike, this is still a spectacular parade to watch. Now in its 10th year, the annual Tour de Lights will start at 6 pm on Dec. 9 at A-J’s Dockside Restaurant. Watch your child’s face light up in awe as a bounty of bikes adorned with glimmering Christmas lights parade through the streets. Try to get there early for door prizes and more. All proceeds will benefit the Rising Tyde Community Food Pantry. What a great way to give back this season!
Holiday Magic
Savannah-based nonprofit, Unity in the Community will host a Holiday Magic celebration Dec. 16 and 17 starting at 11 am each day. This is a special opportunity to enjoy a free, family-friendly and culturally-inclusive holiday celebration. Local vendors will have handcrafted goods and artworks available for sale, so this is a great chance to snag special gifts for everyone on your list. And look forward to live entertainment from players throughout the community.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer the Musical
Children love a great show, and that’s just what’s coming to Savannah’s Johnny Mercer Theatre on Dec. 21. Kicking off at 7:30 pm, the theatre will present “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical”. Enjoy bright lights, song and dance while spending some time with one of Christmas’ most beloved characters. Your child will have an absolute blast. Tickets are on sale now. Don’t miss it!
