Jollydays

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the animals while leisurely touring the zoo. Children can enjoy arts and crafts, while parents visit the zoo’s gift shop. Adults $2.50.

Children $1.25. Some 27 different poinsettias, as well as tropical plants and evergreens, fill Washington Botanical Garden’s Exhibit Hall and Conservatory during its annual Winter Holiday Show. The event, held Dec. 6 through 28, also features twelve decorated Christmas trees, each representing a month of the year. Hours are Monday through Friday 12 to 4 p.m. Sunday 12 to 5p.m. Admission is free. On December 14, holiday music again fills the air during Washington Park’s annual “Christmas at the Carillon.” The Dec. 14 program, which begins at 4:30 at the Rees Carillon, features 67 music bells, a roaring bonfire, as well as hot cocoa and cookies. Free admission.

Skate the day away at the Springfield Park District’s Youth Discovery Challenge. The Dec. 13 show spotlights a Christmas Exhibition presented by the city’s Ice Skating Club. Free public skate sessions, and lessons on the art of ice bowling and broom ball also takes place. The program is scheduled at Lincoln Park’s Nelson Center from 3 to 9 p.m. Free admission.

Holidays Around the World is the theme of the Illinois State Museum’s Dec. 13 Super Saturday. Through arts, crafts, games and other activities, area youth learn the unique ways children from other cultures celebrate the season. The program takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free. Toast the old year goodbye and usher in the new year at Springfield’s First Night. This family-oriented celebration features the best in theater, dance, music and art. The celebration begins at 1 p.m. with activities and performances geared toward youths, followed by entertainment for the entire family. The event culminates at midnight with a fireworks display.

For more information, contact Springfield Area Arts Council at 753-3519.