The Crystal Falls neighborhood in Leander is hosting a free winter wonderland event Dec. 8 that includes hot cocoa, pictures with Santa and 10 tons of artificial snow.

The public is invited to partake in the holiday events from 1–3 p.m at the Taylor Morrison model home located at 2701 Highland Trail in Leander. Parking is available at the subdivision's model homes, along the streets and at Winkley Elementary, said Taylor Morrison spokeswoman Heather Fox. Shuttles are available to and from other model homes, where additional festivities take place.

Children can play in the snow and on an ice slide, get their faces painted, ride a small train and enjoy cupcakes from the Hey Cupcake! food truck. Adults who tour the model homes can register to win a trip to Vail, Colo., or a Keurig coffee machine.

Participants are encouraged to bring a toy donation for Toys for Tots, a nonprofit organization that distributes toys to children whose caregivers cannot afford to buy them gifts for Christmas.

Tim Towell, president of Taylor Morrison's Austin division, said the event is a good way to get into the spirit of the holidays.

"The holidays are such a magical time of the year," Towell said. "We want to spread as much holiday cheer as we possibly can this season."