Socorro Public Library to host a Christmas celebration

Families can expect an afternoon full of holiday cheer when the Socorro Public Library hosts its annual Christmas celebration at 2 p.m. on Dec. 19. The free event—one of the library’s most popular—will include a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, cookie decorating, hot chocolate, crafts, live caroling, and even a possible appearance from beloved “Frozen” characters.

“This is our annual Christmas celebration, and everything we do is free,” Socorro Public Librarian Chelsea Jones said, who organizes the festivities each year. “Santa comes with Mrs. Claus, and it’s the real Santa—his business card even says so.”

Children will also receive candy canes and can choose from a selection of free books to keep.

Activities begin with Santa photos set up against a decorative backdrop. Families should bring their own cell phones for pictures. Upstairs, the second floor will transform into a warm and aromatic treat station, offering hot chocolate and a cookie-decorating table. Downstairs, kids can make simple ornaments and holiday crafts prepared by what Jones affectionately calls the library’s “Christmas crafters.”

Music will fill the main room thanks to a community choir organized by retired music instructor Kathy Amling, who is still recruiting singers and musicians of all ages. Last year’s caroling was a highlight, Jones said.

“Everyone got involved—people were singing along, and it was so much more engaging than hiring a group to perform. It really brings the community together.” Jones said.

This year may also include a surprise visit from characters from Disney’s Frozen, though Jones said she never advertises them in advance.

“They’re very busy in Frozen Land, but we usually get Elsa or Olaf. We’re hopeful someone magical shows up,” she said.

Beyond the holiday celebration, Jones emphasized that December is also a perfect time for families to join the Winter Reading Program, which runs Dec. 1 through Jan. 31. Unlike the more intensive summer program, the winter version is modeled on a bingo card filled with fun, age-appropriate activities—everything from a treasure hunt for a book with “marshmallows” in it to reading to a librarian. Each completed bingo earns a prize.

“It’s more about exploring the library and having fun than reading as many books as possible,” Jones said.

The program is open to all ages, and participants can sign up anytime throughout the two-month period.

The library is also serving as a Toys for Tots drop-off location for anyone wishing to donate new, unwrapped gifts.

“We try to make this a really special day,” she said. “Every time people come in, I want them to feel like this library is a place worth celebrating.”