Downtown Arlington’s December First Thursday: Letters to Santa & Holiday Cheer

 Downtown Arlington’s December First Thursday: Letters to Santa & Holiday Cheer 

The holiday magic is coming to Downtown Arlington, and we couldn’t think of a better way to kick it off than with our December First Thursdays! This monthly event puts the focus on the arts, and its growth Ito a major celebration. On Thursday, Dec. 4, join us for an evening full of festive moments, creative experiences and, of course, a very special opportunity for kiddos to share their wishes with Santa himself. 

Letters to Santa at the Library (4–7 PM)

The star of the evening is Letters to Santa, a family favorite at the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library from 4 to 7 p.m. This event is intentionally designed with families in mind, especially busy parents. Pick your child up from school and head straight to Downtown Arlington, with no extra stops or complicated scheduling. Santa and his helpers will be ready and waiting. 

Kids can sit down to write their letters, decorate them with plenty of holiday cheer and hand-deliver them directly to Santa. Elves will also be on hand to help address envelopes, and while a stamp is required, a limited number will be available for anyone who forgets one. It’s simple, festive and stress-free — the way holiday traditions should be. 

Before or after writing their wish lists, families can stop by the library’s Creative Corner to make yarn-tree ornaments, sip hot cocoa and enjoy family-friendly games and crafts. It’s the perfect warm-up before heading out for the rest of your First Thursday adventures. 

Even if you miss Santa, letters dropped off at the Library's Operation Santa mailbox will be forwarded to the North Pole and eligible for the USPS Operation Santa campaign until December 6th. 

Let us know you're coming: RSVP here. 

First Thursday Fun (5–8 PM) 

Downtown will spring to life for First Thursdays from 5 to 8 p.m. Wander through on walkable downtown, make your own art, enjoy live music and soak up the free artistic experiences. 

Here are some highlights for December:

• Holiday Jazz in the Plaza: The UTA Jazz Quartet will fill City Center Plaza with warm, festive melodies from 5 to 8 p.m., and complimentary hot cocoa will be available. 
• Elves in the Window: At 6:30 p.m., stop by Miss Persis Studio of Dance for a delightful performance as dancers bring holiday magic to life in the studio windows for the sidewalk audience. 
• Live Raku Fire Pottery: Head over to Division Brewing, where artist Landon Palmer will be doing dramatic, fire-driven pottery firing demos. 
• Chalk Obstacle Course: Bring the kids to City Center Plaza and try out the holiday-themed chalk obstacle course or contribute to the giant open chalk drawing. 

Plan Ahead 

• Bring a stamp, or plan to grab one while supplies last. 
• Dress cozy! With outdoor performances and activities, a warm coat, scarf and gloves will go a long way in making the night comfortable. 
• Use our December First Thursday Map to outline your night! 

This First Thursday is more than just an evening out. It’s a moment to connect, create holiday memories and support our local businesses. We hope to see your family there, letters in hand, ready to make wishes, spread cheer and celebrate the holiday season together.