Holiday festivities are coming to the Spencerport Depot and Canal Museum with the calendar chocked full of family fun. Beginning November 30 until December 22, the Depot will be open each Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m.
The Depot will kick off its grand opening of Santa Land on Saturday, November 30 beginning at 1 p.m. The historic building will be decorated with a myriad of different types of Santa figures, even a teddy bear Santa. The Bernabi Elementary School Chorus and Band will provide caroling and music. Everyone’s favorite jolly old elf, Santa Claus, will arrive at 6:15 p.m. via fire truck. Santa has promised to stay and listen to Christmas wishes until 8:30 p.m.
The Depot tree lighting follows the Village of Spencerport tree lighting on November 30 at 5 p.m. at the Clyde Carter Memorial Gazebo on the southwest side of the Union Street lift bridge.
“Folks can follow the specially lit pathway to the Depot from gazebo,” said Doreen Castano, Director of the Spencerport Depot and Canal Museum.
Throughout this month of activities, Depot visitors can take part in a silent auction and bid on decorated artificial two foot tall Christmas trees. The winners of the trees will be notified on December 16.
“These trees are decorated by our Depot volunteers and some are themed trees,” Castano said.
A giving tree will also be on display at the Depot during these holiday events. Visitors can make a donation of hats and socks for adults and children. These donations will be distributed to local charities that serve the needy.
On December 8, the festivities continue with an afternoon of helping others. On this day, donations will be accepted for members of the Armed Forces.
“We are accepting books, candy, hygiene products (no aerosol items) pens, pencils, crossword puzzles, and notepads that we will send to the troops,” Castano explained. During this afternoon, children can also make Christmas cards for soldiers.
A holiday story time will be held on Saturday, December 14 at 2 p.m. Children ages three and up are invited and Castano guarantees special treats for those who visit the Depot that day.
“Santa has promised me that he will leave wrapped surprises for children,” she explained.
A holiday craft time is planned for Saturday, December 21 at 2 p.m. for children ages three and up.
All of these events are open to the public and free of charge. Castano says the events are planned and offered by the Depot volunteers. “These are good people who are willing to give their time freely and we are grateful for their time and talents.
The Spencerport Depot and Canal Museum is located on the southeast bank of the Erie Canal in the Village of Spencerport at 16 East Avenue. For information, visit the website at spencerportdepot.comor call 352-0942.
11/24/13
