Christmas Is Coming Early To North Campus
Postpone that winter break trip—Santa Claus is coming to North Campus.
North Campus’ annual Children’s Holiday celebration returns for its 17th installation on Dec. 9 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Entry is free.
The event transforms North Campus, 11380 N.W. 27th Ave, into a winter wonderland featuring games, live performances, arts and crafts, a parade and Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
Festivities will take place in the grassy area adjacent to the 4000 building. In the past, the annual event has welcomed more than 15,000 visitors each year.
“It allows people the opportunity to experience the holiday season even when they can’t afford to experience it on their own,” said Jaqueline Muni, co-chair of the Children’s Holiday at North committee.
Santa Claus will arrive on campus via helicopter from the North Pole at 9:30 a.m. to kick-off the event. He will be met by a holiday parade of princes, princesses, cartoon characters, elves, dancers and a marching band.
After the parade, attendees can engage in a meet and greet with Santa Claus, which includes a photo opportunity and Mrs. Claus will read books to the youngsters. Children can also visit Santa’s Workshop to write a letter to Saint Nick.
Mariana Rodriguez, an entertainment reporter at Telemundo, and James Pierre, a producer for MDC-TV, Miami Dade College’s award winning television station, will host the event.
There will be activities such as face-painting and the STEM tent, an interactive science workshop that allows visitors to make slime, ice cream and partake in hands-on science-themed activities.
For the first time, a battle of the bands will take place in the 4000 building breezeway from 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. North Miami Beach Senior High School and Miami Central Senior High School will be involved in the musical battle.
The event will also feature a Christmas show and performances featuring Avengers characters, Aloha Islanders and hip-hop dancers.
Other favorites include the Holidays Around the World exhibition, known for highlighting world-wide holiday customs, and the Prince and Princesses’ tent, where children can make crowns and wands with their favorite characters.
The Candy Land food court will feature food trucks with vendors such as Kettle Corn, Alpine Ice, and D’Love Monster Kitchen. Chick-fil-A will also be open.
“This community event is super important,” said Jesenia Patino, co-chair of the Children’s Holiday at North committee. “North Campus is a hidden gem. This is an opportunity for people all across Miami-Dade County to see what North Campus is.”
Students can volunteer for the event here.
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