Chisholm Kiwanis Holly Jolly Holiday

Chisholm Kiwanis Holly Jolly Holiday is here again!

Grab the family and a non-perishable food item and join us for the Annual Chisholm Kiwanis Holly Jolly Holiday!

This free family event features a complimentary dinner, cookies, and a hot cocoa bar. Enjoy crafts, games, a Christmas movie, a selfie station, face painting, live music, and photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

Chisholm Kiwanis is dedicated to serving the children of our community and surrounding areas, and this event is truly one of our favorites of the year!

Thursday, December 4th at the Minnesota Discovery Center from 4:00pm-7:00pm.

Interested in the Chisholm Kiwanis Club?

Stop by Valentini’s on a Thursday at noon for lunch and see if the Chisholm Kiwanis Club is a good fit for you.

Check out their Facebook page to explore all the fun activities and community events they organize throughout the year!

Holly Jolly Holiday Party Fun Facts

1. Origins of the Term

The phrase “holly jolly” became popular in the 1960s thanks to the Christmas song “A Holly Jolly Christmas” by Burl Ives. It captures the spirit of cheerful, festive celebrations.

2. Decorations

Holly, mistletoe, and evergreen wreaths have been traditional holiday décor for centuries, symbolizing eternal life, protection, and festive cheer.
Red and green—the classic holiday colors—represent joy, celebration, and the evergreen foliage of winter.

3. Party Foods

Traditional holiday treats often include cookies, cocoa, gingerbread, and festive pies.
Fun fact: Candy canes were originally white, and the red stripes were added later to represent Christ’s blood or just festive flair!

4. Music and Caroling

Singing carols or playing holiday music boosts mood, togetherness, and community spirit.
Holiday playlists often include classics from Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, and modern favorites like Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”

5. Games and Activities

Holiday parties often feature craft stations, ornament making, cookie decorating, and holiday-themed games.
Activities like secret Santa exchanges date back to early 20th-century traditions in Europe and the U.S.

6. Community Spirit

Holly Jolly Holiday Parties are about more than fun—they bring communities together, often supporting local charities, food drives, or volunteer causes.
These gatherings create lasting memories for children and families, fostering a sense of giving and joy.

7. Santa Sightings

Having a Santa appearance at a party is a tradition that dates back to the 1800s, helping kids experience the magic of Christmas firsthand.

8. Photo Memories

Holiday selfie stations, festive backdrops, and themed decorations make lasting memories for families and participants.