Make a memory that will last a lifetime by watching Santa arrive at the museum’s dock aboard a Geo. Gradel Co. tugboat delivering a Christmas Tree into your hands or the hands of someone in need. In partnership with Geo Gradel Co. and United Way of Greater Toledo, spectators can watch Santa Claus and a boatload of Christmas trees navigate the Maumee River and dock behind the National Museum of the Great Lakes around 11:15 a.m. in person or via Facebook Live at @NMGLToledo. Once at the museum, Santa will take his place for the remainder of the day atop the deck of the Museum Tug Ohio, where children can deliver Christmas wishes from afar to Santa via “Mail by the Pail.” Guests will have both in-person and virtual opportunities to participate all day in order to keep health and safety front and center.

GET A TREE / GIVE A GIFT: This year in partnership with United Way of Greater Toledo, we’re working with East Toledo Family Center, Lucas Co. Children’s Services, and Sylvania Area Family Services to help support our community over the holidays. Get your Christmas Tree from Toledo’s very own “Christmas Tree Ship” OR donate a tree or a gift card to a family in need. The trees are approximately 5 to 7 feet tall. Each tree is $55 and includes family museum admission. Options to purchase your own Christmas Tree, purchase a tree for a family in need, or make a donation to support holiday needs for local families are available with the tickets. Museum Admission will be FREE for all who purchase a tree, donate a tree, or donate towards a gift card.

Tickets are FREE but advanced reservations are required if attending in person, with admission caps for every hour to allow for proper physical distancing.

or call 419.214.5000 ext. 200.

**Trees must be pre-ordered by 5 pm on Tuesday, December 1. No walk-up tree sales will be available. Donations towards gift cards to support families in need can be made through December 5th at the museum or online.**

This year we are working with East Toledo Family Center to provide trees for local families. To learn more about receiving a free Christmas Tree, contact East Toledo Family Center at 419-691-1429.

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