PEABODY — Despite the alarming surges in positive COVID-19 cases, the Peabody Recreation Department is going full speed ahead with a variety of new, live holiday-themed events that are sure to ring in the holiday season on a high note. Advance online registration is required for all events at https://peabodyma.myrec.com/.
The latest program sure to become a family favorite is the department’s “Elf Tryouts,” a fun-filled contest for children ages 4-10 in which participants will have a chance to be like Buddy from the iconic Will Ferrell movie, “Elf.”
The program will be held on Saturday, Dec. 12 (rain date is Dec. 13) at Lt. Ross Park.
From Christmas cookie decorating to gift wrapping to making your own take-home toy, the event promises something for everyone. Every child who registers will qualify for a special telephone call from Santa Claus. Children dressing in holiday costumes (including ugly Christmas sweaters) will receive bonus points. Families should bring a blanket and dress warmly. Families may choose their own time. There is a cap of one family per time slot. The cost is $20 per resident and $25 for non-residents.
Limited spots are available.
On the shortest — and darkest — day of the year, “A Winter’s Solstice Experience,” will be held on Monday, Dec. 21 from 4-5:30 p.m. The event features a guided tour through the Brooksby Farm orchards and fields and includes a campfire, marshmallow roast and a traditional burning of a Yule log. Limited space is available with parties being limited to two members per family. Comfortable footwear and warm clothing is recommended. The cost is $15 per resident. Advance registration is required.
The Peabody and Danvers rec departments are coming together to offer “Experience the Night” on Friday, Dec. 18 from 4-5:30 p.m., starting at the Brooksby Farm animal barn. Participants have a chance to escape their artificially-lit homes and enjoy a digital-device free evening under the stars while experiencing how the five senses kick in when vision is limited. The cost is $25 per family with a maximum of two family members per party. Advance registration is required.
The department is teaming up with Peabody Main Streets once again for the wildly popular “Light the Night” holiday decorating contest. Residents can pay $10 to enter their homes and businesses in the contest. Decorations must be completed by Tuesday, Dec.15. Photos will be taken by the Rec department and shared on social media. Participants’ addresses will also be posted on Google Maps to encourage residents to drive by and vote for their favorites. From Dec. 18-23, viewers may cast their ballots by liking the photos on Peabody Rec’s Facebook page and Instagram (peabody_recreation) page. Votes will be tallied by the number of likes.
“Santa Calling” will be Wednesday, Dec. 9 from 5:30-8 p.m. This event promises a special, personalized telephone call from Santa Claus to children ages 3-10. The event is free, but space is limited. Due to the enormous popularity of this event, early registration is advised.
The department is offering the following: Gingerbread House workshops for children in grades K-5 in December: “Building Dreams,” Dec. 8; “Holiday Happiness,” Dec. 10; “Taste the Magic,” Dec. 15, and “Sugar Rush,” Dec. 17. All classes will be held from 3:30-4:30 p.m. in the clubhouse at The Meadow golf course. The cost is $15 per child.
Face masks and COVID-19 pre-screening are mandatory for all Peabody Recreation programs. A complete list of safety protocols and additional information can be found on the department’s website.
