This December, Gainsborough will sparkle with festive cheer as the Ho Ho Grotto takes place on Sunday 14th December, from 12.00pm to 4.00pm at The Riverside Room, Bridge Street.
Organised by The United Services Club, a non-profit, the grotto is a completely free community event designed to bring Christmas joy to children and families, especially those facing tough times. The goal is simple: no child should miss out on the magic of Christmas.
Every child visiting Santa will receive a free gift and a Christmas Eve box, along with the chance to enjoy face painting, cookie decorating, reindeer food making, craft stalls, games, and live entertainment from Hillcrest Nurseries, The Salvation Army Band, and Dream A Little Dream’s Elsa. Visitors can also meet alpacas, enjoy the bouncy castle, and festive treats from Bakes by Izzy.
The event supports the Gainsborough Salvation Army Food Bank, with donations of non-perishable food encouraged, such as UHT milk, Weetabix, tinned meat, tuna, tomatoes, soup, or beans, to help local families during the festive season. To fund the grotto and keep it free, organisers run The Local Slice, a monthly pop-up café at The Little Retreat in Lea, with all proceeds going directly to the event. More info can be found on their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/thelocalslice.
“For me, it’s all about giving children the chance to feel the magic of Christmas, whatever their circumstances,” said organiser Debbie Revill. “Seeing their faces light up makes every effort worthwhile. I want to thank every local company that has donated – their support means so much – and my friends and family for all their help. This event truly is a team effort.”