FOLEY - OWA is gearing up to begin its Christmas festivities on Saturday, Nov. 20. The property’s 36-foot-tall Christmas tree has been placed and decorated at the main entrance of OWA and overlooks the 14-acre lake and fountain in the center of the property. Decorations have gone up across the destination in preparation for this year’s holiday activities, starting with the 5th annual Tree Lighting ceremony beginning at 5 p.m. on Nov. 20.

The ceremony features live entertainment, the lighting of the tree and a visit from Santa Claus himself. The tree lighting and holiday inspired fireworks show takes place at 6:30 p.m. If you can’t make it out to the event, you can watch it live via OWA’s Facebook and YouTube channels. Guests can watch the event on numerous screens throughout Downtown. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available after the tree lighting for photos, and snow will fall in Downtown.

“OWA is truly magical during the holidays,” said Kristin Hellmich, OWA’s director of marketing/PR. “We are thrilled to bring back Christmas traditions this year, like Brunch with Santa and the North Pole, as well as a new experience: Mrs. Claus’ Crafty Christmas. From live performances featuring the Tinsel Tones, to photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, there is something for everyone this holiday season at OWA.”

The North Pole Experience will be open to guests every Friday, Saturday and Sunday beginning Nov. 26 - Dec. 19. The experience will take place daily the week leading up to Christmas, Dec. 20 - 23. Children and families will be able to participate in free Christmas crafts with Santa’s Elves while waiting to grab a photo with Santa. Professional photo packages will be available for purchase.

The first Brunch with Santa will take place Saturday, Nov. 27. The event will occur on select dates from Nov. 27 to Dec. 23 at Shady Arbor inside The Park at OWA. Guests will have the chance to dine with Santa and enjoy an all-you-can-eat pancake spread. Admission to The Park will not be required to partake in the event, but a seat reservation for $14.99 per person plus taxes and fees will be required. Reservations can be made online at VisitOWA.com/Christmas.

The new Mrs. Claus’ Crafty Christmas is a paid interactive experience and will take place on select dates from Nov. 26 - Dec. 19. The event features Mrs. Claus and her North Pole helpers presenting a family-friendly session of Christmas merrymaking through song and dance, cookie decorating and creating custom designed Christmas ornaments. Reservations are required for this limited seating event and can be booked online.

Hours and dates for all activities are subject to change. Detailed information, reservations, and a full list of holiday events can be found online at VisitOWA.com/Christmas.