Well-behaved felines, pooches and other critters are invited to pose pretty in Santa’s lap for the camera again this season.
Starting Wednesday, the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority will host “Wag Your Tail” from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Nov. 25, Dec. 9 and Dec. 16 at the Indiana Welcome Center, said Erika Dahl, of the SSCVA. Part of the proceeds from those days, as well as any donations people would like to bring, will be gifted to a few different area animal rescues.
Wednesday’s proceeds will go to Alsip to the Rescue; and Bella’s House Animal Rescue and Treasured Friends will receive the other two days’ proceeds respectively, Dahl said.
Inviting the furry family members came out of the infamous scene in “A Christmas Story,” when the Bumpus hounds raided the Ralphie’s house and stole the Thanksgiving bird, according to Dahl.
“Even if it was a little chaotic, the Bumpus hounds had a good home, so we thought we should make sure our hounds in Northwest Indiana were getting what they want for Christmas, too,” she said. “Plus, it coincides with our ‘A Christmas Story Comes Home’ exhibit, so all family members are welcome.”
For children, Santa will continue to make appearances for holiday photo ops, Dahl said. He’ll touch down from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through December. He’ll even put in time before he heads on the big ride from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 22 and Dec. 23, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Christmas Eve.
All 4-inch-by-6-inch photos cost $6 apiece, she said.
For more information on Wag Your Tail Wednesdays, photos with Santa, the “A Christmas Story Comes Home” exhibit, weekend and holiday hours or special events, contact the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority at 219-989-7770 or visit www.AChristmasStoryComesHome.com. The exhibit runs through Jan. 3.
Michelle L. Quinn is a freelance reporter with the Post-Tribune.