The Village will start its holiday festivities on the weekend with operating hours held from 3-9 p.m. Dec. 3-4 and from 3-9 p.m. Dec. 10-11. The Village will be open to stroll through and view 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Dec. 5-9 and Dec. 12-25.
Santa’s Village was moved from its traditional location in the fountain plaza adjacent to City Hall because of the Aug. 22 City Hall fire. Santa’s Village officially moved to its new site at Huffhines Park, which is located at 1500 Apollo Road, on Oct. 17. Due to the relocation, the city will not host its annual Pre-School Day at the Village.
Richardson officials have utilized the city-owned park for other temporary renovation and relocation projects. It is also the site of the proposed permanent home for the historic Miss Belle’s House.
According to city officials, the new location required a few changes to the village, including a reduction in the number of dwellings. Parks Director Lori Smeby said during a City Council meeting that Huffhines Park was a natural choice for hosting Santa’s Village due to “available electricity, good parking infrastructure and restroom availability.”
Santa's Village is a free nightly holiday event open to the public during the first three weeks of December, according to the city's website. The celebration includes photos with Santa, musical performances and an annual opening night Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Dwellings at the Village include Frosty's House, where kids can visit Frosty the Snowman and make a wintery craft; Santa's Reindeer Shed, the K-ELF TV Station; and Santa’s House. Performances set during Santa’s Village include Richardson Community Band, Kaitlyn Sparks, Fenton's Dance Factory and the Dartmouth Elementary Choir.
For more information on Santa’s Village and a full performance schedule, visit here.
