On Monday, the annual Festival of Lights exhibit will return to the Lansing Historical Museum, housed in the lower level of the Lansing Public Library, 2750 Indiana Ave. The regular monthly meeting will take place at 6 p.m. with a performance of holiday tunes by the T.F. South High School Chorale. After the performance, the museum will be open to the public for viewing of more than 30 trees, each decorated to represent a different country or culture or village group.
I really enjoy visiting each year to see the trees and help as a tour guide. It’s my favorite time of the year at the museum. It’s that exhibit that first got me involved in the Lansing Historical Society about 16 years ago, when my next-door neighbor, Delma Walter, invited me and my son, who was just a toddler, there to see the trees. I encourage everyone in town to stop by for a peek at the exhibit. Hours will be extended for the holiday season. Hours are 6 – 8 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays; 3 – 5 p.m. Wednesdays, and 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Saturdays. The exhibit runs through Dec. 29. The exhibit is free for visitors.
Also, I’ll be signing copies of my new book, "Legendary Locals of Lansing," before the meeting, starting at 5:30.
Have breakfast with Santa
Santa has arrived in town and you’ll have an opportunity to visit with him to share your wish list and take a photograph with him from 7 – 11 a.m. Dec. 8 at T.F. South High School, 18500 Burnham Ave. The event is hosted by the Lansing Area Chamber of Commerce, with pancakes provided by the Copper Muggers. Cost is $5 per person and tickets are available at the chamber office or at the door.
If you aren’t able to see him at breakfast, stop by the Santa House, next to the chamber office at 3404 Lake St. in Lansing. Hours for the Santa House will be from 6 - 8 p.m. Fridays (11/30, 12/7, 12/14 and 12/21) and from 1 - 3 p.m. Saturdays (12/1, 12/15 and 12/22). Visitors are welcome to bring their own cameras to get a picture of their children with Santa.
I have been visiting the Santa House since my oldest son was a baby — that’s going back 18 years. I remember when the elves used to take pictures with Polaroid cameras for you and give you cookies (that I think were probably homemade.) I’m so glad Santa and Mrs. Claus have been returning to Lansing each year so that I can continue the tradition of bringing my family there. For more information, visit LANSINGSANTA.COM
Support the mom and pop places
As you head out to do your holiday shopping this season, keep in mind that there are many downtown businesses on Ridge Road and throughout the village that are small, independent stores that carry a variety of unique products. Skip the big box stores and spend some time supporting the mom and pop establishments in the community.
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