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Shillito’s Elves Return to Mariemont By Suzy Weinland The spirit of the holiday season comes alive once again as the “Shillito’s Elves” interactive wonderland returns for another year in Mariemont. This enchanting Christmas display, proudly presented by the Mariemont Inn, takes visitors on a captivating journey into the heart of Santa's Workshop. Those who grew up in Cincinnati may recognize parts of the original SantaLand display! In 1979, Shillito’s Department Store in downtown Cincinnati put over 130 animated figures, created from scratch by local talent, into 10 interior scenes, 7 storefront windows, and more than 20 other merchandising windows throughout the store. This holiday tradition continued for many years, drawing visitors from near and far. Visitors to this year’s magical display will be transported into a realm of holiday enchantment where 60 of the original Shillito’s
Elves are set in 14 largely original, animated scenes of Santa’s Workshop. Discover elves sorting out letters to Santa in the mailroom, working hard to craft toys, and loading toys
onto Santa’s sleigh to deliver on Christmas Eve. A few new scenes are planned for this season as well! This unique holiday experience is very similar to the original walk-through SantaLand and blends newer technology with the timeless charm of Christmas traditions. There are also designated photo spots throughout where visitors can capture memories with friends and family. New this year is a scavenger hunt and raffle. Grab a card upon entry to Santa’s Workshop, shop or dine at two participating Mariemont businesses (they will stamp your card), and then redeem the card at the front desk of the Mariemont Inn for a free Santa’s Workshop keychain as well as to be entered into an end of season raffle. Bill Spinnenweber, owner, expressed his excitement, stating, "This holiday display is cont'd on page 4