Winter Magic at the Irving Park YMCA
The Irving Park YMCA wrapped up 2024 with a festive lineup of winter events, including our annual Breakfast with Santa event where families enjoyed a delightful morning of food, crafts, and visits from Mr. and Mrs. Claus! December was filled with festive cheer as we hosted several other community-focused events including a vaccine clinic, a creative gingerbread house-making evening, and more. Thank you to everyone who joined us and made the month truly special!
Breakfast with Santa | December 14, 2024
Our Breakfast with Santa event was a tremendous success, bringing together over 100 attendees of all ages to celebrate the holiday season at the Irving Park Y. The morning began with a delectable breakfast spread, featuring a variety of delicious options that delighted both children and adults alike. We were thrilled to welcome two very special guests: Mr. and Mrs. Claus! They spent the morning taking photos with families, creating cherished memories. Each family received a Polaroid snapshot as a keepsake, ensuring the magic of the day was captured forever.
We want to give a big thank you to Lutheran Social Services of Illinois for hosting the Letters to Santa station. Children enjoyed writing heartfelt messages to Santa and decorating their letters with creative touches like stamps, stickers, and sprinkles. The station was a highlight for many young attendees. As a modern twist our Irving Park Y Tech Hub team also had their email-to-Santa station, giving children the opportunity to send digital holiday wishes.
We were honored to have author Erin Rose Sahm join us with her book Today!. She brought interactive activities like bookmarks, stickers, and coloring packets, engaging attendees of all ages in a fun and educational experience. The Kids Zone staff rounded out the event with an ornament-making station. Children crafted unique decorations to take home, adding a personal touch to their family’s holiday celebrations.
This event would not have been a success without the incredible efforts of Santa’s helpers—our dedicated volunteers and staff—who worked tirelessly to bring everything together. We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone in the community who joined us and made the day truly special. Your enthusiasm and holiday spirit created an unforgettable celebration for all.
In addition to Breakfast with Santa, we hosted a variety of other events at the Irving Park Y in December:
Resident Holiday Celebration on December 2, 2024
This event brought our Irving Park Y housing residents together for a festive evening of community bonding and holiday cheer.
Rush Vaccines on December 12, 2024
In partnership with Rush University Medical Center, this vaccine clinic helped keep our community healthy during flu season.
Senior Social Holiday Party on December 18, 2024
Our community members gathered together at Clarendale Six Corners. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, making it a memorable celebration for everyone involved.
Gingerbread House Making on December 20, 2024
Families came together to design and decorate gingerbread houses, ending the season on a sweet and creative note.
Thank You for a Wonderful Winter in 2024!
As the year comes to a close, the Irving Park Y extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in our winter events. Your enthusiasm and support bring our community to life, and we can’t wait to share more memorable moments with you in 2025. Here’s to a happy, healthy, and connected new year!