Santa Claus is not the only one making local appearances this holiday season.
Mrs. Claus stopped by Tuesday night at the Worth Park District Historical Museum, 11500 S. Beloit Ave., Worth, for Christmas tea and storytelling with local families.
“This is a wonderful event because it appeals to residents of all ages,” said Theresa Rebersky, of Worth. “There is a mix of ages ranging from young children to senior citizens. We enjoyed an enchanting evening.”
For the inaugural event, Mrs. Claus was portrayed by Debi Gajewski, of the Story Spinners, and also president of the Windy City Storytelling Guild.
“Every year, we like to do a different, special, family-friendly Christmas holiday program,” said museum curator Colleen McElroy, who also is a village trustee. “I am always looking for something to engage the community, and I feel that this will be the perfect fit for the museum patrons.
“We look forward to the holiday season to provide exceptional programming and community events to the village,” said McElroy, who organized the event. “This year’s theme of having Mrs. Claus reading by candlelight while enjoying tea and some great stories about the holiday season is sure to warm the soul.”
Shannon Ferriter, 5, of Alsip, was particularly fond of the hot chocolate that was poured into Santa, Frosty the Snowman and other Christmas character mugs to keep warm.
“This is really a great event,” Ferriter’s grandmother, Debbie Monroe, of Crestwood, said. “We really love it.”
Angela Potts, of Alsip, agreed the cozy story time made for a nice evening out for her and her children.
“We are always looking for local things to do within the community,” Potts said. “When I heard about this event, I knew right away it would be a really nice event to bring my kids to.”
More than 30 residents listened to Christmas stories by candlelight while enjoying tea and baked treats provided by the museum.
Last year’s holiday event also drew more than 30 guests for the museum’s “Ghosts of Christmas Past” with Ursula Bielski.
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Kelly White is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.