In our family we are pretty traditional when it comes to what we do every year during the holidays. I use the same Christmas dishes, listen to the same music, use the same decorations- you get the point.  Something else we stick to is where we visit to celebrate Christmas as well as ring in the new year.

Literally every year, for the last 14, we have done the same things.  MY sons expect it and their anticipation of said events just fills me with happiness.  The fact that they want to see the same Santa, visit the same shop for our candy canes, eat the same foods- I soak it in every year.  THIS is why I run myself ragged to shop and wrap when they are sleeping. I don’t want to miss a thing! We have so much to do together- so little time ????

Celebration Crossing at the Indiana State Museum is no exception. This is a tradition for us.  My son is now taller than me and has no intention of sitting on Santa’s lap with his brother but he does want a picture with him. I love this.

I asked my friends as the Indiana State Museum to share their top 8 reasons why YOU should visit Santa at Celebration Crossing as well.

1. Celebration Crossing Opening Day

On Friday, Nov. 29 the celebration opens with holiday merriment from the sounds of bands and choirs to the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus on the front lawn by helicopter. Children of all ages are invited to ride the Santa Claus Express, make crafts and rekindle memories of holidays past as they gaze into the recreated L.S. Ayres store windows.

2. L.S. Ayres Tea Room

This year the historic L.S. Ayres Tea Room will be converted into the perfect holiday place to have the perfect holiday meal.  From Friday, Nov. 29 through Tuesday, Dec. 31, walk-in diners will be invited to celebrate the season with friends and family and select from a menu of amazing appetizers to devilish desserts, all while enjoying the festive decorations, music and scheduled entertainment. Reservations required.

3. Santa’s Holiday Breakfast presented by Macy’s

During the first, second and fourth weekends in December, guests will get to start their mornings off with delicious holiday breakfast as Mrs. Claus, Raggedy Ann and other holiday characters that will entertain the young ones before they visit Santa Claus and ride the Santa Claus Express. Reservations required.

4. Santa’s Holiday Brunch presented by Macy’s

On Sunday, Dec. 15, adults and kids alike will join in the fun during this holiday brunch featuring traditional brunch dishes and festive holiday mimosas. Brunch also includes a visit with Santa and access to the rest of the Celebration Crossing activities. Reservations required.

 5. Santa’s Playground

Throughout the month of December, guests will be treated to Santa’s (Imagination) playground in the Earl Goode Education Center on level 2. In addition to the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)-based activity area, there will also be crafts and a place for caregivers to sit and relax while their children play.

6. Hoosier Radio Hour: A 1940s Christmas

During the first, second, fourth and fifth weekends, guests will get to join the Indiana State Museum Legacy Theater Troupe as they celebrate the holidays with “Hoosier Radio Hour: A 1940’s Christmas.”  Original skits and familiar carols are part of this heart-warming production, suitable for Hoosiers of all ages.  Audience members will be invited to join the fun onstage as members of the sound effects staff.

7. Holiday Sounds

School and community choirs, bands, ensembles and soloists perform holiday music in the museum’s Governor Frank O’Bannon Great Hall each day. Enjoy holiday sounds in a spectacular atmosphere.

8. Celebration Crossing: A Family New Year’s Eve

End the year with a bang with a family-friendly, alcohol-free celebration in the Governor Frank O’Bannon Great Hall on Tuesday, Dec. 31 from 6 to 9 p.m. Activities include face-painting, arts and craft, games, door prizes and a special musical performance by Indianapolis band The Tides. A balloon drop at 8 p.m. allows little ones to celebrate the New Year in style. Reservations recommended.

For specific dates, times and costs associated with programming, or to make reservations, please call 317.232.1637 or visit www.indianamuseum.org.

The last 3 photos courtesy of Indiana State Museum.