On Friday, Nov. 8, from 10a.m. to 4p.m., the city of Fort Thomas will gather at Ruth Moyer Elementary for the beloved Santa House, a cherished tradition that brings the community together each year. The smell of baked goods and hot cocoa fills the air, while the sound of laughter and festive music echoes down the halls.
This year marks the 50th year of Santa House, a Fort Thomas event that started as a small school fundraiser, but has quickly turned into a tradition that students, parents, and volunteers all love and want to be part of each year.
The Moyer Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) works hard each year, planning six months in advance to make improvements to the Santa House better. Their dedication pays off each year, continuing the Christmas tradition everyone loves.
“When we’re done, we start putting it away and start thinking about what’s gonna change next year, yeah. I mean, the actual planning starts 6 months beforehand, but we’re thinking about it all year for sure,” Moyer Principal, Peter Winkler, said.
This year, the PTO is looking to make changes to make their playground more age-friendly and fun for the preschoolers.
“The PTO is looking to help make improvements to our playground…we’re looking into turf, we are also looking into preschool improvements…some more age-appropriate items out there for the preschool because we do house the preschool program,” Winkler said.
The Santa House offers a variety of fun activities for kids of all ages, including playing games run by volunteers, decorating a gingerbread house, creating crafts, playing Gaga Ball, jumping in the bounce house, and even shopping in the kids’ store with the 5th grade elves.
“The 5th graders get to make memories and help out the younger kids, which can be really fun,” Ava Hall (8) said.
Giving back during the holiday season doesn’t have to only be about gifts. It’s about time, kindness, and community spirit. Santa House shows people how to give back and volunteer during the giving season.
“Sometimes we get trapped into getting during the Christmas season, during the holiday season, and this is one opportunity where kids learn the value of giving,” Winkler said.
The kids’ gift shop creates a safe but fun environment for kids to shop for their families each year, without parents telling them what to buy.
“I think one of my favorite parts is the children’s gift shop because it allows kids the opportunity to get that sense of giving for someone else,” Winkler said.
This experience teaches kids how to shop on their own while also budgeting money. 5th graders each year dress up as elves to help the kids shop; this can also teach them real-life work experience.
“Helping was a lot of fun. I got to do it with friends and we all had fun,” Elise Gieske (9) said.
After many games played, smiles cherished, and gifts bought, Moyer Elementary celebrates 50 years of the cherished holiday tradition. Santa House will continue to open its doors to the community year after year, bringing the town together.
