TOLEDO, Ohio — Toledo's eastside will be filled with fun activities along Front Street thanks to several events happening consecutively on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024.
Beginning at 10 a.m., the National Museum of the Great Lakes (NMGL) is open with free admission to all visitors, which is in conjunction with the annual Christmas Tree Ship docking just outside the museum starting at 1:30 p.m.
NMGL's Marketing and Communications Manager, Ashely Streichert Lovejoy, told WTOL 11 this annual event is all about giving back while bringing the community together.
"Those interested can donate during the day to help a family in need, through gift cards – which help with supporting holiday needs. Plus, for every holiday support donation, UToledo Health will match your gift with a healthy hygiene kit for community members in need," Streichert Lovejoy said.
She expressed that gift cards will be distributed to individuals and families in need of support by the nonprofit's partners: East Toledo Family Center, Family House, Lucas County Children Services and Sylvania Area Family Services.
Those looking to give donations can do so at the museum, as well as, online.
Then beginning at 11 a.m. is the 52nd annual East Toledo Holiday Parade.
The parade route starts at South Ravine Parkway, to East Broadway, then to Starr Avenue and Main Street. The route ends at Metroparks Toledo's Glass City Enrichment Center, which is near the museum.
After the parade, around 12:45 p.m. until 1:30 p.m., guests can watch the decorated tugboat dock behind NMGL where Santa Claus and a boatload of Christmas trees will navigate the Maumee River to deliver the trees both via livestream and in person.
After the ship arrives, Santa will go inside the museum exhibit building to receive visitors.
For more information about The National Museum of the Great Lakes Christmas Tree Ship event or to donate, click here.