A Lawrence Holiday Tradition

The Children's Holiday Shop is a Lawrence holiday tradition unique to the Arts Center . Each year 500-800 children, ages 3-12, have the special experience of selecting their own gifts for their families, teachers, friends, and pets at the Holiday Shop. These quality gifts range in price from $1.00 - $5.00. Our program sponsor, Capital Federal Savings is critical to the success of the Holiday Shop.

The Holiday Shop is a safe and fun event where children are escorted by volunteer "elves" who ensure they have a unique and special experience selecting their own gifts for loved ones on their list. Parents wait for their children outside the Shop so that the presents selected will be a surprise on the day they are opened. Families also enjoy the Preschool Cookie Sale and other entertainment to be announced.

An important part of the Shop is the Holiday Shop Dollars program. Holiday Shop Dollars are distributed through local social service agencies to children in the community who otherwise could not afford to shop for their families. More than $8,000 will be distributed to children will receive Holiday Shop Dollars through generous donations from sponsor Capital Federal Savings and donors like you.

The Children’s Holiday Shop is a successful holiday treasure thanks to the over 200 community volunteers who spend countless hours shopping, wrapping, and ‘elving’ during the event. Lawrence Arts Center Preschool families organize the Preschool Cookie Sale, baking and donating all of the cookies. Thank you to all of our wonderful supportive volunteers!