Naperville open house offers tips for elves

To discern what's fashionable this holiday season, an elf-in-training might look to Will Ferrell in the movie "Elf" or to Hermey in the TV classic, "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer."

But it's not all about fashion at the Santa House, which opens next month along Naperville's Riverwalk. It's also about pragmatism.

Elves stationed outside, waiting to usher guests in to see Mr. Claus, are advised to consider, among other things, the weather.

"They need to wear their winter coats," said Sue Omanson, Naperville Park District's community development project manager.

Pointy hats and curly shoes are welcome, too, she said.

These and other elfish considerations will be detailed at a volunteer open house presented by the park district from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12, at the Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center, 305 W. Jackson Ave.

"It's a time for volunteers to come and sign up for their preferred shifts at the Santa House," Omanson said.

Each year, the park district hosts a month-long visit from Santa, who greets guests in a house specially constructed for his stay. As usual, this year's house will be situated just west of Webster Street and the Dandelion Fountain.

Omanson said about 100 volunteers, ages 12 and older, are needed to help Santa. Elves hand out programs, greet guests and direct crowds.

"You need to be friendly and reliable, to enjoy talking with the public," she said. "You can volunteer with your family, you can volunteer with a friend."

The Santa House is open at a variety of times and dates Dec. 2 to 21. Usually four or five elves are on duty for each shift, which last from 90 minutes to two-and-a-half hours.

In addition, volunteers ages 14 and older are being sought to set up, clean up and pass out goodie bags at a Dec. 13 breakfast with Santa at the community center, Omanson said. And help also is needed with craft-making, cleaning and set-up for the Dec. 6 morning candy cane hunt at The Barn.

Omanson said volunteers who come to the open house will have first choice of shift schedules. Those who can't make it to the open house can call the park district afterward and choose from the remaining slots, she said.

"We usually have a good turnout," she said. "It's a social thing. It's fun to do with a friend. It's part of the holiday season. It's festive."

If you go

What: Holiday Volunteer Open House, sponsored by Naperville Park District

When: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Nov. 12

Where: Riverwalk Community Center, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville

Info: (630) 848-3572 or napervilleparks.org