Winter Wonderland

A benefit for Christmas in the City

At a volunteer meeting in the Spring of 2017, we started brainstorming about fundraising for our programs. Someone wondered whether we could take advantage of the indoor amusement park we always had for the Sunday of our holiday party. Those rides, after all, were just sitting there the Saturday before… why not invite Boston area families to come on in and help support a terrific cause? What a great way to celebrate the holiday season. Volunteer Janet Kuser put her hand up and agreed to run with the idea.

A great new Boston holiday tradition was born

For $20 a ticket, kids had unlimited access to 20 great rides – and all proceeds went to support Christmas in the City.  We made the day even more special with carolers, crafts and pictures with Santa. We asked the families who come to share in the spirit of the holiday season by donating a toy, as well – and showing their children that they can make a difference in the lives of other kids who may not be as fortunate as they are. Because if there’s one thing we’ve learned over the years: all children deserve to know that the holidays are special.

Since that first Winter Wonderland fundraiser in 2017, we’ve raised tens of thousands of dollars for Christmas in the City.

Winter Wonderland was closely tied to our Christmas in the City party for families experiencing homelessness, which for many years was held at the Boston Exposition and Convention Center.  When we’re able once again to host the big party event, we anticipate that Winter Wonderland will also resume.