Santa’s Coming to Maumee Bay—and the Fun is FREE!


Every December, as the air turns crisp and the first hints of winter shimmer across Maumee Bay, families look forward to a tradition that has become one of the area’s most heartwarming holiday treasures. This year, they will gather at Maumee Bay Lodge & Conference Center for a celebration filled with wonder, warmth, and the kind of magic that only comes when a community comes together.

Set for December 12th and 13th, this two-day holiday experience is free and open to everyone, parents, children, grandparents, neighbors, and friends. While no admission fee is required, guests are encouraged to bring a new toy or a small donation to help spread holiday cheer to local families. Last year, nearly 800 guests attended, and this year promises to be just as memorable.

A nighttime view of Maumee Bay Lodge & Conference Center reflecting on the calm waters, showcasing its modern architecture with warm lights glowing from the windows.

The centerpiece of the event is, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus. Children can meet Santa, share their holiday wishes, and capture the moment with photos that will become treasured keepsakes. Mrs. Claus adds her own warmth and charm, making every child feel welcome and special.

A promotional graphic for the 'Cookies with Santa' event featuring the event details, including dates, time, location, and donation encouragement, alongside images of chocolate chip cookies and a cheerful Santa Claus.

Around the lodge, families will find a variety of festive activities designed to delight visitors of all ages:

  • Ornament-Making Station: Guests can sit together to craft personalized ornaments, creating sparkling memories to hang on their own holiday trees.
  • Hot Cocoa Station: Warm, cozy drinks piled high with marshmallows provide a sweet pause from the winter chill.
  • Cookie Table: A delicious spread of seasonal treats invites families to snack, share, and savor the flavors of the holidays.
  • Scavenger Hunt: Guests can explore the lodge as they search for hidden surprises, turning the event into a playful adventure for kids and adults alike.
  • Letter-Writing Station: Little ones can pen letters to Santa or share holiday wishes, adding a personal touch to their seasonal celebrations.
  • Holiday Music & Movies: Throughout the lodge, cheerful songs and classic holiday films create a magical, cozy atmosphere.
  • Special Edition from Imagination Station: This year, guests can enjoy hands-on science-themed fun, blending creativity and learning for a memorable new twist on the holiday experience.
A child in a red holiday sweater is drawing on white paper with colorful markers, working on a festive letter to Santa, surrounded by craft supplies and scissors.
Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

While these activities offer excitement and entertainment, the true magic of the event lies in the moments shared between families. They laugh over messy crafting projects, savor cookies and cocoa together, and watch their children’s eyes light up at every surprise. Each activity, from taking photos with Santa to discovering the newest Imagination Station feature, becomes part of a shared holiday memory that families will treasure long after the event ends.

Located at 1750 State Park Road, Oregon, Ohio, Maumee Bay Lodge & Conference Center has long been a community gathering place. During these two special days, it transforms into a space where traditions are born, memories are made, and the spirit of the season can be felt in every corner.

This free, family-friendly holiday event invites everyone to slow down, enjoy the festivities, and embrace the joy of the season. With Santa photos, festive treats, creative crafts, and hands-on fun at Imagination Station, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy. It’s a celebration of community, kindness, and the simple joy of being together, a holiday experience that will warm hearts and create lasting memories for years to come.

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