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While Rudolph and his crew are training for the long flight around the world, Santa Claus is turning to one of the world’s fastest drivers (two-time Indy 500 pole-sitter and Verizon IndyCar Series owner/driver Ed Carpenter) to lead the way to the world’s largest children’s museum this holiday season and he has several other surprises in store for good boys and girls of all ages.
“HO HO HO, wouldn’t you know I’d find the fastest ride possible to visit good little girls and boys and find out what’s on their lists,” said Kris Kringle. “I want Rudolph and the boys to be well-rested for the big night.”
Jolly Days Winter Wonderland (Nov. 22, 2014 – Jan. 4, 2015)
It’s cold outside . . . but it’s FUN (and warm) in here! See the sparkling lights, experience the warm traditions, and enjoy all the fun of winter weather without the soggy socks! You can even become an elf in training and earn elf ears by participating in winter activities in Jolly Days, including skating in socks on an indoor “pond,” climbing and sliding on the Snow Castle, “ice” fishing, pretend-baking holiday goodies in the Tradition Kitchen and indoor snowball fights. For many visitors, a highlight of their trip to Jolly Days includes a visit and photo with Santa (beginning November 28) who will be waiting to hear what’s on the wish lists of young museum visitors.
Santa’s Big Arrival (Nov. 28, 2014)
Ladies and gentlemen, Santa and elves . . . start your engines and get ready for an 8:30 a.m. start! Santa will zoom into the museum the day after Thanksgiving in a race car (Indy Racing Experience 2-seater IndyCar) driven by 2013 and 2014 Indianapolis 500 Pole sitter Ed Carpenter. Santa’s Secret Service will deliver Carpenter’s family while elves rappel down the face of the four-story museum. Hot Chocolate will be available outside for Santa’s arrival.
Perfect Gift Guide & Extra Savings on Black Friday (Nov. 28, 2014)
Those looking for the perfect gift for their little ones need look no further. The Museum Store invited children to come play with the toys in the store and vote for their favorites. The Top Ten list from the Kid-tested, Kid-approved event included Super Slam Basketball, Flying Turtle and Foxfire Glow Putty among others. Special note: On Black Friday, you can save 30% on purchases made from 8:30-10 a.m. (day after T-giving, November 28, 2014). You will also receive free child admission with the purchase of an adult November 28 only from 8:30-10 a.m. You will also receive free child admission with the purchase of an adult November 28 only from 8:30-10 a.m. Museum memberships also make fun and imaginative holiday gifts that keep on giving family learning and memories.
Super Savings
Celebrate family fun for free from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the world’s largest children’s museum on December 4, 2014 as part of Target Free Family Night. Christmas Eve is also free December 24, 2014 from 10 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Children are invited to visit Jolly Days to get in those last-minute wishes with Santa before he leaves in his sleigh to begin his deliveries around the world.
Yule Slide
Zip down the two-story Yule Slide lickety-split to see who can make it to the bottom of the 47 foot long slide. Rumor has it the inside track is faster (we haven’t scientifically proven this to be true; however it took me exactly 5.8 seconds to make it down the left lane as opposed to 6.8 seconds in the right lane). More than 83,000 people took the trip last year.
A Seussified Christmas Carol (November 28, 2014 – January 4, 2015)
This whimsical reinvention of Dickens' most beloved Christmas story comes in wacky rhymed couplets. Imagine what it would be like if Jake Marley got to have his way by influencing the Ghost of Christmas Past, the Ghost of a Christmas Present and Sven – the Ghost of Christmas Future! Picture zoot fruited juices and binka bird geese, bed-headed Fred and Timmy Loo Hoo too! This tale of glorious holiday cheer is similar to something Dr. Seuss might have created. It is performed by professional actors – some of whom fly around the set! Look for creative costumes made entirely out of an LED fabric and a motorized “Seussian” vehicle which the performer will drive onto the stage. Public performances of the play written by Peter Bloedel take place at various times and include ASL interpreted performances.
Season of Light in SpaceQuest Planetarium (November 28 – January 4)
You don’t have to leave the museum to travel around the world. Discover how light is an international tradition at the darkest time of the year in SpaceQuest Planetarium. Narrated by NPR’s Noah Adams, the show includes winter astronomy in the Northern Hemisphere and explores how many of our holiday traditions and music are about light.
Family New Year’s Eve Celebration (December 31, 2014 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.)
Celebrate the final day of 2014 with activities, music from Grammy-nominated children’s recording artist Zak Morgan, and Water Clock countdowns at noon and 1 p.m. that will allow families to experience the excitement of a countdown at a reasonable hour for the youngsters! Receive hats and other festive favors for the big moment! While supplies last
All activities and events listed above are included free with paid admission to the museum. Jolly Days is presented by PEPSI and supported by Barnes & Thornburg, LLP and Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent.
The Dallara IndyCar Factory is an interactive Facility where the public can learn how IndyCars are designed and built! Everyone can have the opportunity to see and take photos with IndyCar Show cars, and even take a ride around town in a street legal two-seater Indycar!
About The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is a nonprofit institution committed to creating extraordinary learning experiences across the arts, sciences, and humanities that have the power to transform the lives of children and families. For more information about The Children's Museum, visit www.childrensmuseum.org, follow us on Twitter @TCMIndy, Facebook.com/childrensmuseum and YouTube.com/IndyTCM.
