The Polar Express makes its way to GiGi’s!

Before heading back to the North Pole, we were fortunate to have Santa’s presence at GiGi’s Playhouse Annapolis (six feet apart of course)!

With fabulous leadership from Ellen Zielinski, support from GiGi’s volunteers, Junior League of Annapolis, and the Chesapeake Ballet Company, the Playhouse was able to hold a safe and successful event to spread holiday cheer.

First stop on the Polar Express ride was the photo booth. The participants and their families could choose props and pose for the camera all within the comfort of their car.

Their next stop was the swag bag station. Provided by the Junior League of Annapolis, participants were each given a bag full of awesome goodies! 

Then came the cookie decoration station… each bag was filled with cookies, icing, and sprinkles for the participants to take home and decorate themselves. A huge thank you to Melissa Schaab for making all these wonderful kits!

At the final stop was the Conductor and Santa Claus. The participants were able to give Santa their list and tell them what they wanted for Christmas. Santa also brought gifts for the participants and their siblings! Thank you Pet Smart!

Before the Polar Express came to a close, ballerinas from the Chesapeake Ballet Company performed a piece from The Nutcracker. Each of the families had their own private viewing for a beautiful performance.

We are so lucky to have our phenomenal volunteers to organize a creative activity bringing Santa to the participants. Thank you Ellen for planning and leading this wonderful holiday activity.

What a success it was! Even though the families remained in the car throughout the event, our Polar Express was full of laughter, joy, and Christmas spirit and we cannot thank our dedicated and creative volunteers enough. Happy Holidays 2020-style!

Written By: Camille Manuncia, GiGi’s Communications Intern