Elf Academy Brings Santa’s Workshop To Life For Local Children

CLAYTON – Kids are walking away from the 2025 Clayton Parks and Recreation Elf Academy with crafts in their hands, glitter on their sleeves, and the confidence that comes from becoming an elf for a day. The experience feels like a trip to the North Pole where the magic is real and the excitement is contagious.

The 2025 Elf Academy took place on Saturday, December 6, at the Clayton Community Center, welcoming children ages three to 12 for a magical, hour-long experience. Kids explored what it takes to be one of Santa’s helpers, moving through a series of festive stations filled with laughter and holiday cheer.

They made toys, posed at a selfie spot, had a friendly indoor “snowball fight,” crafted jingle bells, designed their own gift wrap, decorated trees, prepared reindeer food, and enjoyed cookies and cocoa.

“Watching the kids transform the moment those elf ears go on is my favorite part,” said Lauren Lambert, Marketing and Special Events Coordinator for Clayton Parks and Recreation. “You can see it in their smiles. They feel the magic right away.”

Members of the Clayton Youth Council volunteered throughout the program, helping families as children completed their elf training. Senior Symphony Murray said the joy on the kids’ faces keeps her coming back each year.

“Their reactions are priceless,” said Murry. “As soon as we hand them their ears, they believe they’re real elves. It’s so sweet watching them step into the Christmas spirit.”

She added, “Helping them become part of the story – like they’re inside Santa’s workshop – is a reminder of how much small moments can mean.”

Parents were just as excited about the experience. Clayton resident Kiana Montgomery, who returned for a second year, said her family looks forward to Elf Academy as soon as registration opens.

“It’s something fun and easy for everyone to enjoy,” shared Montgomery. “We run into classmates, neighbors, and friends. It really brings out that small-town feeling, and the kids absolutely love it.”

Children agreed that becoming an elf was the highlight of the day. One young participant summed it up: “My favorite part was making crafts and being an elf,” she said. “And I told Santa I want Barbies and a piano!”

Elf Academy continues to grow each year, thanks to the Clayton Parks and Recreation team and a group of dedicated volunteers who help keep the magic alive for every family who walk through the doors.