Park District Hosts Breakfast with Santa, Gingerbread House Workshop

Information courtesy of the Northbrook Park District

The Northbrook Park District recently held two holiday events. Here's the report on how they went.

Breakfast with Santa

Joy, wonder and amazement filled the room, along with the smell of pancakes, eggs and bacon, as Santa Claus arrived for breakfast at Sportsman’s Country Club on Saturday, December 8. The annual event from the Northbrook Park District attracted a capacity of 60 people.

Upon arriving, children received a personalized Santa hat from Sparkle the Elf, who delighted the visitors by reading a story and conducting a surprise snowball fight with cotton balls. As anticipation grew, Santa arrived on a bright red all-terrain vehicle, gliding by the windows where the children waited, their faces pressed against the glass. Santa visited with each child and posed for photos, taken by Northbrook Park District staff. The children also decorated photo frames and ornaments.

“Many of the children and adults who attended left with new friends, along with precious memories,” said Ashley Summers, Leisure Services Supervisor with the Northbrook Park District. “The intimate setting of the dining room at Sportsman’s makes the event feel like a family gathering. Each child was able to interact with Santa several times. This event brought together families from the community for a wonderful morning of holiday cheer.”

Gingerbread House Workshop

Home, sweet home! About 75 people enjoyed a Gingerbread House Workshop at the Leisure Center on December 11. Children and their parents carefully decorated homes with candy, pretzels, licorice and frosting, supplied by the Northbrook Park District.

Many of the home decorators were repeat customers at the annual Park District event. One family has attended for more than five years and brings specific candy and a new design each year. Other parents said they enjoy comparing pictures of the houses from year to year to document their children’s creativity.

“This was a fun bonding experience for families,” said Natalie Lyman, Leisure Services Supervisor with the Park District. “Children loved creating an edible masterpiece for their families to enjoy. Parents were happy that we took care of the candy and the cleanup, so they could enjoy the company of their children and encourage their messy, creative talent.”

Families also enjoyed pizza and soda during the event. At the end of the evening, they  proudly (and carefully) transported their one-of-a-kind creations.