The Hollis Woman’s Club creatively coordinated a glimmering luminaria that filled children’s hearts and many kitchens with gingerbread this year.

In his workshop, Santa and his friendly elf met with children virtually to hear their Christmas wishes. Santa’s jolly “Ho, ho, ho” relaxed even the shyest little one. Families sent the HWC thank-you notes with comments regarding their visit.

John C. of Hollis wrote “At a time when it’s been hard to bring Christmas magic safely into our home, this was a wonderful way to have a great Christmas experience. (The kids) had a blast. …” Another parent, Tami, noted “My daughter was THRILLED and thought that talking to Santa on Zoom was the coolest thing ever.”

In previous years, children have met with Santa in the Lawrence Barn while sitting on his Christmas sleigh. This year, HWC Director of Fundraising Kaaren Eastman said the visits were just as special.

She added, “We are grateful the community supported our Zoom Santa visits. The funds raised support scholarships and area nonprofits.”

The Gingerbread House contest, a beloved tradition, was hosted virtually as well. Finished cottages were photographed by the baker and submitted to a panel of judges. There were two categories: Kit entries and baked from scratch entries. Both kit and scratch entries had age-group sub-categories. The youngest contestant, Delany Curran, won first place for a kit gingerbread house, ages 5 & under. visit HollisLuminaria.org for a list of all prize winners and more photos.

The Hollis Woman’s Club is a nonprofit organization that welcomes women from all area communities. In spite of the virus, the group has monthly meetings on Zoom, monthly service projects and activity groups held safely, and more social activities to come as spring approaches. For more information, visit HollisWomansClub.org.