Instead of a Christmas event, we hold a Multi-Cultural event in early December. When kids first come in, they get a large bag, which they can decorate, then we have a variety of craft stations. We made Christmas ornaments, darling Kufi felt hats for Kwanzaa, we played the Dreidl game, we made Swedish paper woven baskets, Mexican paper flowers, a neat African good luck symbol, etc. We had music, dance, light food. We had about 10 raffle baskets for the parents to look over when kids were crafting. It was a great time!
One of the schools in our area does a Winter Wonderland. Each room has a tree dontated and this class decorates it with a theme. They charge admission ($1, I think) to walk through the Wonderland. You could possibly add strolling carolers and I know our town is looking at the possibility of renting a portable rink (maybe too expensive) during the holidays.
Does anyone have any good ideas for a Christmas carnival? Last year a new person took over and did a pretty good job. We had 4 craft tables, a clown, picture with Santa, donuts and juice. The Chairperson is asking for ideas to make it a little bigger. We have the use of a very big gym and the school lunchroom. The school has tried a Santa Shop in the past and it did not go well. Members of the PTO are not willing to do it again, so other ideas are needed.