WONDERLAND IN WESTCHASE

The holiday spirit is alive in Westchase District during the annual Wonderland in Westchase celebration, scheduled for Thursday, December 13 from 5:30 - 8:30 pm.  The event -- which is a collaboration of First Methodist Houston, Houston West Chamber of Commerce, Quillian Recreation Center and Westchase District is held on the grounds of First Methodist Houston's Quillian Recreational Center.

"Last year's event attracted 7,000 people, and we hope to serve at least that many this year," said Tom Gaden, director of Quillian Recreation Center and chairman of this year's event.  "We expect to have 60,000 pounds of snow," added Gaden.  

Santa (joined by his reindeer) and Mrs. Claus (reading favorite Christmas stories) are headlining this year's event.  Other featured attractions include moonwalks, a petting zoo, fire truck rides, pony rides, climbing wall, mechanical bull, train rides, and hay rides.  Two separate snow areas will be set up for children 5 and under and 6 and older.  Other special activities for pre-schoolers include crafts and face painting.   "From the climbing wall to pony rides, we have something for everyone," said Gaden.

Area schools will provide entertainment on the outdoor stage, including choirs from Askew Elementary, Heflin Elementary, Chancellor Elementary, Memorial High School's Madrigal Choir, plus Cookie Joe's Dance Companies.  Performing in the Atrium of First Methodist Houston will be the church's Senior Ringers, Dickens Carolers, Westchase and Downtown Bell Choirs, harps and shofar.

Wonderland in Westchase is sponsored by Amegy Bank, First Methodist Church, Loren R. Cook & Associates, Richfield Investment Company, MemberSource Credit Union, Westchase District, BMC Software, United Recovery Systems, and Rockwell Management.  In-kind sponsors include Coca Cola, Houston Chronicle, Festive Tents and Alphagraphics.

Other corporate sponsors include Frost Bank, Granite Properties, HCR Manor Care, Hoar Construction, Premier America Credit Union, Westchase Specialty Pharmacy and West Houston Medical Center.  The Adult Bible Hour, Adelphi Sunday School Class, Truthseekers Sunday School Class, and Mary Grace Randerson -- all of First Methodist Houston -- also sponsored activities at Wonderland in Westchase.

Admission to the event is free. Participants are asked to bring new, unwrapped toys and non-perishable food to be collected for West Houston Assistance Ministries.

Click here to download a printable flier promoting Wonderland.  Or view a slideshow of our 2006 event.

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