Christmas is my favorite holiday because it lasts for so much longer than other holidays! I love the lights and decorated trees, hot cocoa and sweet treats, music and movies, and most of all seeing how Princess D's face lights up when she sees anything Christmas-y.
I was really excited to learn that The Grand Del Mar was having a Holiday Open House for anyone to enjoy. This year we went there for Valentine's Day, so had a feeling that it would be a fabulous place to start off the holiday festivities. We were not disappointed when we entered the main lobby and were greeted by a gorgeous Christmas tree, period dressed carolers and Nutcracker ballet dancers.
Unfortunately, we had arrived late (because we had to go back home since I forgot my camera) and had to push our way along with the crowd to see the Santa's Workshop display. The detail is incredible and you could get a tooth ache from smell alone.
Even though the sign said HANDS OFF it was impossible for parents to keep kids from touching it. One kid knocked the sign over trying to get closer. I even saw a small bite taken on the very edge!
They children didn't have to wait long to get their fill of sweets. A hall just beyond the main lobby had candy canes that could be transformed into reindeer and gingerbread cookies that could be decorated with icing, sprinkles and M&Ms. There was endless hot cocoa, caramel or chocolate pecan squares, apple cider, spice bread, coffee and tea.
By the time we got in line to see Santa it was an hour long. Families were getting their yearly group photos taken with the man in red causing the line to move slowly. He did make sure to take his time talking to each child ... since that is really what it was all about. We even got a professional photo to take home as a keepsake.
The evening ended with the lighting of the hotel Christmas tree and a mini performance of the Nutcracker. Princess D was amazed with how the ballerinas could spin and spin and spin. It got her excited for her first ballet recital next week.
Overall, it was a wonderful free local event! It got us in the holiday spirit and I am looking forward to more holiday events this weekend. Next year I think we will have an early supper at one of the resort restaurants so that we can get a good table to see the lighting ceremony, get in line to see Santa BEFORE the crowd gets there and enjoy all that the open house has to offer.
Click here to view the upcoming holiday events at The Grand Del Mar.
NOTE: I was not asked to post about The Grand Del Mar or this event. All statements are my opinion and my opinion only.
