December 17, 2025 Babylon

Page 1


South Bay's Neighbor

TOWN OF BABYLON OFFICIALS THANK BABYLON BOCCE CLUB

ANTIPASTO (Choose one)

• Traditional Antipasto Platter

• Handmade Mozzarella Caprese Platter

• Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail Platter

FIRST COURSE (Choose one)

MAIN COURSE (Choose one)

• Penne Alla Vodka • Linquine Fruitti di Mare

• Baked Ziti

• Lasagna (Meat or Cheese)

• Stuffed Shells • Baked Manicotti

SALAD (Choose one)

• Garden or Caesar

• Baby Spinach & Goat Cheese with Fresh Seasonal Berries

• USDA Prime Stuffed Flank Steak Roast (Raw)

• Boar’s Head Sweet Sliced Ham (Brown Sugar Glaze)

• All Natural, Hormone Free Center-Cut Stuffed Boneless Pork Roast (Raw)

• Stuffed Flounder Filet

VEGETABLE (Choose two)

• String Bean Casserole • String Bean Almondine

• Candied Sweet Potatoes • Eggplant Rollatine or

• Roasted Potato Wedges Parmigiana

• Sautéed Broccoli

DESSERT (Choose one)

• Apple Pie or Grain Pie

• Fresh Cut Fruit Bowl

of Lindenhurst

Spasso Holiday Catering

Pasta w/Tomato Sauce 45.00 70.00 Pasta w/Garlic & Oil 50.00 75.00

Pasta Alla Vodka 60.00 90.00 (Creamy Pink Sauce w/Grated Parmigiana Cheese)

Pasta Bolognese 60.00 90.00 (Pink Cream Meat Sauce)

Pasta Alfredo 60.00 90.00

Pasta Primavera 65.00

(Pink Cream Sauce w/Fresh Garden Vegetables)

Pasta Casalinga 80.00

Pasta w/Shrimp & Broccoli 85.00 115.00 (Baby Shrimp & Broccoli Sauteed In Garlic & Extra Virgin Olive Oil Served Over Pasta)

Pasta w/Chicken & Broccoli 65.00 95.00

Fresh Mozzarella, Roasted Peppers, Artichoke Hearts & Grilled Chicken)

Pasta w/Broccoli & Garlic 60.00 90.00

Pasta D’Estate 80.00 110.00 (Sun Dried Tomatoes & Roasted Peppers w/Mushrooms, Sliced Black Olives, Sauteed w/Garlic, Virgin Olive Oil & Artichokes)

Pasta Carciofi 80.00 110.00 (Sauteed Artichoke Hearts w/Garlic, Peas & Onions)

Pasta Guisseppi 65.00 95.00

(Chopped Broccoli, Zucchini, Sundried Tomatoes, Olives & Mushrooms Sauteed w/Garlic & Onions Then Topped With Mozzarella Cheese)

Choice Of Pasta: Rigatoni, Fettuccini, Penne, Linguine or Angel Hair

Happy Holidays Babylon Public Library

24 S. Carll Ave.

Babylon, NY

Erin White

631.669.1624

ADULT PROGRAMS

Adult Games Mondays,

December 22, & 29

1:00pm – 4:00pm

The Community Room is open for library patrons to play games of their own choosing. Patrons must bring their own games. New players are always welcome. Adults only. No registration required.

Friday Films:

The Life of Chuck Friday, December 19, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

We will be watching the film The Life of Chuck (2024). From childhood to adulthood, Charles “Chuck” Krantz experiences the wonder of love, the heartbreak of loss, and the multitudes contained in all of us. Starring Tom Hiddleston, Jacob Tremblay, and Benjamin Pajak. Rated R. Running time: 111 minutes. No registration required.

Social Work Intern

Wednesdays, January 7, 14, 21, & 28, 4:00pm - 7:00pm Fridays, January 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30, 11:00am – 2:00pm Saturdays, January 3, 10, 17, 24, & 31 10:00am – 4:00pm Sundays, January 4, 11, 18, & 25, 1:00pm – 4:00pm

Meet with our social work intern for referrals to community organizations and agencies for mental health services, food insecurity, legal assistance, and more. Our intern can also assist with applications for government sponsored programs and services (unemployment benefits, housing, SNAP, etc.), including following up on applications. Drop in during scheduled hours or email for an appointment at: socialworker@ babylonlibrary.org.

Gentle Yoga

Mondays, January 5, 12, & 26; February 2, 9, & 23 11:00am – 12:00pm

This 6-session all-levels Continued On 19

Notice is hereby given taxpayers of the Town of Babylon, that the Undersigned ReceiverofTaxes has received the 2025/2026 Tax and Assessment Roll and Warrant.

She will accept payment for taxes at her office in the Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, N. Lindenhurst, N.Y. 11757 or by mail, beginning December 2025 daily between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Tax Office will be closed on Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays. First half taxes are due December 1, 2025 payable to January 12, 2026 without penalty.

After January 12, 2026 one percent per month will be added on the first half to June 1, 2026 after which date, additional interest wil be charged by the County Comptroller at his office at County Center, Riverhead, N.Y. 11901.

The Town of Babylon Tax Office will be accepting partial payments with penalty. We offer e-check and credit card payment through a telephone service or by the internet which includes American Express, MasterCard, Visa or Discover. For payments by telephone call 1-800-2PAY-TAX (1-800272-9829) or visit the web site at www.acipayonline.com. At the prompt, use Jurisdiction Code 4232. You must have your item number and tax amount available. Transaction fees will be charged to the taxpayer based on the amount of the total charge. Total amount Warrant to be collected by the Receiver of Taxes for the 2025/2026 tax year is $890,677,136.35.

Taxes become a lien December 1st of each year. at the same time. First and Second half payments may be made

JENNIFER MONTIGLIO RECEIVER OF TAXES

DATED AT BABYLON, N.Y.

December 1, 2025

2025/2026 TAX RATE ON $100 valuation - TOWN OF BABYLON

2025-2026

TOWN OF BABYLON

Jennifer Montiglio, Receiver of Taxes TAXABLE DISTRICTS

2025-2026

HOLIDAY CATERING MENU

PASTA CHICKEN

Baked Cheese Ravioli

$80 $40

Baked Ziti with Meat ..............................................$80..........$40

Cheese Manicotti ...................................................$80..........$40

Baked Stuffed Shells

Lasagna with Meat/Ricotta

Fettucine Alfredo

Tortellini Alfredo

Linguine Clam Sauce (Red/White)

$80 $40

$95 $55

$85 $40

$85 $40

$85 $50

Pasta Primavera .....................................................$80..........$40

Rigatoni Ala Vodka .................................................$80..........$40

Gnocchi with Cream Pesto Sauce

Penne with Broccoli, Garlic & Oil

Lobster Ravioli with Ala Vodka

Spinach Ravioli with Cream Sauce

$85 $50

$75 $35

$105 $60

$90 $45

Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli Rabe & Sausage $90 $45

Farfalle Pasta with Grilled Chicken & Pesto $85 $45

Cheese Agnolotti with Pea & Prosciutto Cream Sauce . $95 ......... $55

Rigatoni Filetto Di Pomodoro

$75 $35

Farfalle Pasta with Mushrooms/Pea/Prosciutto Cream Sauce $85 $45

VEAL

Veal Marsala

$140 $75

Veal & Peppers .....................................................$140..........$75

Veal Parmigiana

Veal Rollatini

SEAFOOD

Scungilli In Sauce (Hot or Sweet)

$140 $75

$140 $75

$160 $85

Scungilli & Mussels (Hot or Sweet) $140

Mussels Marinara

Shrimp Scampi Over Linguine

Francese

Cacciatore ..............................................$120..........$60

Marsala

Chicken Rollatini with Proscuitto & Mozzarella

Piccata (Artichokes & Olives) .................$120..........$60

BEEF & PORK

VEGETABLES

Sauteed Broccoli ....................................................$70..........$45

SALAD

BHS Students Selected For Exclusive Art Workshop

Three Babylon JuniorSenior High School student-artists recently took part in an exclusive New York State Art Teachers Association (NYSATA) all-island art program. Katherine Orifici, Allie Manetta, and Olivia Lynch were among only 24 students across Nassau and Suffolk counties chosen to participate in this exclusive workshop.

The students earned this honor based on their outstanding portfolio scores from the NYSATA Spring 2025 adjudication. The portfolio review is a comprehensive process where students discuss their artistic process, present finished artwork, and conduct a self-assessment with an adjudicator. Katherine, Allie, and Olivia joined student-artists from Hicksville, Babylon,

Lindenhurst, Mattituck, and William Floyd high schools for this special honor

This inaugural allIsland workshop was held on November 17th, and was led by local artist and activist Andres Gallardo. During the session, Gallardo will worked directly with the students, sharing his personal path in the arts and the inspiration behind his unique use of vinyl albums as a medium. He also presented on his GEM project, which stands for “Giving Everyone Moments,” and detailed how he has shared his artwork and message with communities throughout the world.

The Babylon School District congratulates these outstanding student-artists on this distinguished recognition of their artistic excellence.

Three Babylon Junior-Senior High School student-artists recently took part in an exclusive New York State Art Teachers Association (NYSATA) all-island art program. Katherine Orifici, Allie Manetta, and Olivia Lynch were among only 24 students across Nassau and Suffolk counties chosen to participate in this exclusive workshop.
Pictured: Olivia Lynch, from left, Katherine Orifici, artist Andres Gallardo, and Allie Manetta.

State Utilities is a major oil dealer on Long Island providing heating fuel to residents and businesses in Nassau and Suffolk County; we offer on-line fuel ordering, delivery, and full service heating oil contracts.

State Utilities takes pride in supplying fuel you need to heat your home and/or office to the comfort level you desire. Winter can be long and brutal, and should your burner fail to start it can become a crucial disaster. It is comforting to have full service during this disruption by contacting us by telephone or Email, no matter what the weather outside.

Celebrating 74 years in business, we are grateful to the many generations of loyal customers who have entrusted State Utilities with their interior comfort. Thank you.

SUNDAY, DEC. 7th

DECEMBER HAPPENINGS

THROUGH DEC. 31st (Daily)

ANIMIATED CHILDREN'S WALKTHROUGH STORY

Hicks Nurseries, 100 Jericho Turnpike in Westbury. Open during normal store hours. Located in the Christmas Gallery. The Christmas story features Santa, his elves and friends as they prepare for the big day! Please bring a donation of a non-perishable food item(s) for Long Island Cares and it drop off at the end of the walkthrough. Free Event. For more information, please call 516- 334-0066

THROUGH JAN. 1st (Daily)

PORT JEFFERSON FESTIVAL OF TREES at Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 East Broadway in Port Jefferson. Free Event. See beautifully decorated Trees by local businesses, groups, and non-profits! This event is presented by The Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce. Title Sponsor - Hanover Bank. Co-Sponsor: The Incorporated Village of Port Jefferson. For more information, please call 631-4731414

THROUGH JAN. 4th (Daily)

12:00NOON-3:00PM

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday ANNUAL MODEL TRAIN DISPLAY

The Town of Babylon History Museum and Babylon Town Historical Society, feature an interactive model train display (240 sq. ft.) that highlights historic points of interest from around the Town of Babylon. Admission is FREE. The

MAKE A SUBMISSION! Events must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event date and will run free of charge on a space available basis. For more information, please call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com

Town History Museum is located at the historic Old Town Hall, built in 1918 and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2005. For more information, please call 631-587-3750

THURSDAY, DEC. 18th

6:00PM-7:45PM

WINTER GREENERY WORKSHOP

At the Wantagh Public Library, 3285 Park Avenue in Wantagh. A winter greenery workshop to celebrate the season! RSVP to PaumanackeGC@ gmail.com to receive details and to register. Lite refreshments will be served after the workshop.

SATURDAY, DEC. 20th

6:00PM-10:30PM

BRUMIDI’S CHRISTMAS PARTY at Sons & Daughters of Italy, 2075 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park. For more information and reservations, please call Linda at 516-356-0949, www.sonsofitalyli.com

MONDAY, DEC. 29th

9:00AM-3:00PM

HOLIDAY DISCOVERY DAYS 2025 Sweetbriar Nature Center will be offering daily natural science programs over the school breaks for elementary school children from 9:00am-3:00pm.. Each day will be a different natural science theme. Each day is chock-filled with fun hands-on activities, interaction with our resident non-releasable wildlife, crafts, games, and much more. Sweetbriar Nature Center is located at 62 Eckernkamp Drive in Smithtown. For more information, please call 631-979-6344

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 31st

11:00AM-12:00NOON NAUTICAL NEW YEAR

Did you know the New Year's Eve ball is based on an old nautical timekeeping tradition? Join us to countdown to 12 noon, and enjoy festive self-serve crafts all day during gallery hours. Included with Admission. The Whaling Museum & Education Center Of Cold Spring Harbor, 279 Main Street in Cold Spring Harbor. For more information, please call 516.282.6426, 631.367.3418 x12, Email cainslie@cshwhalingmuseum. org

6:30PM-8:00PM

EARLY NEW YEAR'S EVE BALL DROP/ CELEBRATION

Farmingdale Village is hosting an Early, Family Friendly New Year's Eve Celebration - Ring in 2026 with a New Year’s Eve free celebration. Free admission, free hot cocoa, free noisemakers .& Live Music ... on the Village Green, 361 Main St, weather permitting. Bring family & friendsall ages. Thanks to the Farmingdale Business Improvement District, Farmingdale Village Fire Department, Farmingdale Chamber of Commerce, Farmingdale Village Board, all involved. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/ events/32564875029824369

8:00PM-1:00AM RING IN THE NEW YEAR

Brumidi Lodge-Sons & Daughters of Italy, 2075 Deer Park Ave. in Deer Park. For more information, please call Linda 516-356-0949, wwsonsofitalyli.com

Presenting Babylon’s Ex Officio Student BOE Member

Babylon Junior-Senior High School senior Katie Bellone has been selected to serve as the student ex officio member of

the Babylon Board of Education for the 20252026 school year. The student representative position

is a vital link between the student body and the district’s governing Board of Education. While the position is non-voting, it

provides a crucial platform for a student voice in board discussions on policies, programs, and issues that directly impact the

educational experience.

“I am honored to have been chosen as the student representative on the school board,” she said. “It is important to represent the student body and allow us to have a voice on matters that impact us. I am excited to continue my role throughout the year.” Katie brings extensive leadership experience to the position. She currently serves as 12th grade student council president and has held roles as 11th grade student council vice president, president of Babylon Buddies, and president of the Mock Trial Team. She is also a member of the Superintendent’s Advisory Council, Peer Leaders Club, and the National Honor Society, along with several academic honor societies. She is also a dedicated three-sport varsity athlete, and plays soccer, basketball, and lacrosse.

Babylon Junior-Senior High School senior Katie Bellone has been selected to serve as the student ex officio member of the Babylon Board of Education for the 2025-2026 school year. Pictured: Babylon Board of Education Ex Officio Member Katie Bellone, bottom right, with Board of Education Trustee Dave Sonkin, clockwise from top left, Trustee Ari McKenzie, Trustee Catherine Wieland, Vice President Donna Noesi, Trustee Robert Verdi, Trustee Theresa Patiri, and President Linda Jurs.

The Babylon School District and Board of Education congratulate Katie on her appointment and are confident that her insight, dedication, and proven leadership will be invaluable assets throughout the school year.

Classifieds

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TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will be happy to assist you

TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will be happy to assist you

HAVE AN APARTMENT TO RENT?

Place your ad in our Classifieds 631 -2 26- 2636 Ex t. 276

BUYING? SEL LING? RENT ING?

Place your ad in the Classi fieds 631 -2 26-2636 Ext. 27 6

BUYING? SELLING? RENTING?

Place your ad in the Classifieds 631 -2 26-2636, Ext. 276

LOOKING TO ADVERTI SE YOUR BUSINES S? Call Classified and one of our experienced sales representatives will help you. BIG BUDGET? SM ALL BUDGET? 631-226-2636, press 276

BUDGET? SM ALL BUDGET? 631-226-2636, press 276

Babylon Public Library

Continued From 5

class is focused on moving mindfully and with ease. Each session consists of standing, prone, and seated postures. The focus is on body awareness, strengthening, stretching, and the breath. Please bring a mat and a large towel or blanket. There is a non-refundable fee of $30.00 due at registration.

Adult Games

Mondays, January 5, 12, & 26

1:00pm – 4:00pm

The Community Room is open

for library patrons to play games of their own choosing. Patrons must bring their own games. New players are always welcome. Adults only. No registration required.

Mocktail Class

Monday, January 5, 5:30pm – 7:30pm Start off 2026 with some new mocktail recipes! Learn how to make 4 mocktails (Pina Colada, Strawberry Daiquiri and 2 seasonal drinks) including review of glass types, rimming techniques, and

accompaniments. Tastings of each drink will be provided. Registration is required.

Writer’s Workshop Tuesdays, January 6 & 20, 5:30pm – 7:45pm Babylon Library’s Writer’s Workshop is an ongoing program that usually meets two Tuesday evenings a month. New and experienced writers are welcome to join at any time. Feel free to bring any works in progress to share and discuss. Adults only, please. Registration is required.

Continued On 20

PAINTMAN 2.0 RE SIDENT IAL/ COMMERCIAL

Interior/Exterior Painting,Staining, Refinishing. Full Carpentr y Services

Epox y Concrete Flooring, Concrete Pa ving Cleaning & Sealing. Doors, Mouldings Chair Rails Cabinet Refinishing

CONSTRUCTION CORP. CALL 631 960 3368

CA MBRIDG E PATIO 20' X 20' $5900

• CAMBRIDGE PAVERS.

• BLACKTOP DRIVEWAYS,

• CHIMNEY REPAIRS,

• PATIOS,

• NEW STOOPS & REPAIRS, PVC FENCES, FREE ESTIMATES LICENSED/INSURED

631-226-2646

TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will

TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will be happy to assist you TO place an ad in the CLASSIFIED section, call 631-226-2636, press “2” A sales representative will be happy to assist you

Babylon Public Library

Continued From 19

TEEN PROGRAMS

Teens Dungeons & Dragons

Wed., December 17 5:30pm – 7:30pm

Join us in the library for Dungeons & Dragons! Build a character, choose your weapons, and lay waste to nasty critters with a roll of the dice. New and experienced players welcome! Grades 6-12. Registration required.

Teens Candle Making Program

Tuesday, January 6, 4:00pm – 5:00pm Learn the history of

candle making and where wax originates - and then create your own colorful scented candle! You can make patterns like a rainbow, tie-dye, or ombre. Decorate and take home. Grades 6-12. Registration required.

Teens Dungeons & Dragons

Teens Book Sleeve Sewing Program

Monday, January 12, 5:00pm – 6:30pm

Learn how to sew a one of a kind, beginner level book sleeve! All fabric choices and sewing machines will be prepped and ready to go when you arrive. You’ll get a step-by-step lesson on how to use the sewing machine and then create a book sleeve from start to finish! Grades 6-12. Registration requiredspace is limited!

Wednesdays, January 7 & 21, 5:30pm – 7:30pm Join us in the library for Dungeons & Dragons! Build a character, choose your weapons, and lay waste to nasty critters with a roll of the dice. New and experienced players welcome! Grades 6-12. Registration required.

Girl Scouts Of Suffolk County Host 2025 Holiday Lights Show

The Girl Scouts of Suffolk County (GSSC) will host its annual Holiday Light Show, which returns to Camp Edey in Bayport for an expanded, magical walk-through experience, Thursdays through Sundays through December 21, 2025. Camp Edey is located at 1500 Lakeview Ave., Bayport, NY 11705.

Launched more than 20 years ago, the Girl Scouts of Suffolk County Holiday Light Show has grown into a Long Island tradition — transforming the scenic grounds of Camp Edey into an “Enchanted Forest” of lights.

The highlight of the show will be “Girl Scout Way,” an area where the five winning creations from the 2025 Girl Scouts Holiday Light Design Contest will be on display. Each design was drawn by a Girl Scout and then custombuilt by the groundkeepers at Camp Edey in creations spanning six to twelve feet tall.

The 2025 Girl Scouts Holiday Light Design Contest winners are:

• Penelope Alambra, Smithtown, Troop 358, Brownie

• Amani Bradley-Coleman, Sienna Lebron, Teresa Cortez, Natalia Ciborowski, Kaylee Jimenez, Kiera GreenWilson, Maggie Ericson, Bomi Oyewo, Hanmi Oyewo, Lindenhurst, Troop 506, Multi-Level

• Ciara Weisbecker, Babylon, SU 14 (Juliette), Senior

• Olivia Castelli, Patchogue, Troop 1400, Cadette

• Sadie Ciesinski, Melville, Troop 103, Junior

“This event is a beautiful example of how Girl Scouts combine imagination, leadership, and community spirit to shine light— literally and figuratively— on the holiday season,” said Tammy Severino, President & CEO of Girl Scouts of

Suffolk County. “We are proud to showcase these designs and give visitors a chance to see the girls’ ideas brought to life in lights.”

Among the special features at this year’s Holiday Lights Show:

• A new “Cozy Bungalow Package” with admission for up to five guests in a private winter-themed bungalow plus food vouchers, offered at a special rate. Themes include Nordic Nest (Scandinavian, rustic, snowy lodge), Holly Jolly Hut (traditional red and green Christmas décor), Gumdrop Cottage (candycolored fun straight from a storybook and gingerbread-inspired décor), and Starlight Shack (twinkle lights and a starry winter’s night with touches of snowflakes).

• The “Chill Zone” returns, with lawn games, fire-pit warmth, and hot-cocoa

treats courtesy of FirstClass Food Trucks.

• Visits with Santa Claus! The event is open to the public, and ticket prices start at $12.50. Tickets and

Cozy Bungalow reservations must be purchased in advance on the Girl Scouts of Suffolk County website: http://www.gssclightshow. org.

Every ticket purchased supports leadership programs, summer camp experiences, and financial assistance for girls throughout Suffolk County.

Photo of Light Design Contest Winner Olivia Castelli, Patchogue, with her design, and Tammy Severino, President & CEO, Girl Scouts of Suffolk County, attached, credit Girl Scouts of Suffolk County. Photo courtesy of Girl Scouts of Suffolk County

Town Of Babylon Officials Thank Babylon Bocce Club For Exceptional Toys For Tots Donation

Town of Babylon Supervisor and Council

Members issued a heartfelt thank-you to the Babylon Bocce Club for their extremely generous donation to Councilman

Terence McSweeney’s annual toy drive in partnership with the United States Marine Corps Toys for Tots Foundation.

Each year, the club’s

contribution helps ensure that children and families facing hardship are still able to experience the joy of the holiday season.

Councilman McSweeney noted that he is continually “amazed by how much this incredible club can provide for families and children who are less fortunate.”

He praised the group’s unwavering commitment

to giving back, calling their generosity “one of the many things that make the Babylon community so special.”

Town of Babylon Deputy Supervisor and Councilman Tony Martinez also commended the club’s compassion, stating:

“The Babylon Bocce Club sets the standard for what community giving looks

like. Their kindness makes a real difference in the lives of local families.”

Councilman McSweeney, who organizes the Marine Corps Toys for Tots toy drive each year, added:

“Each year, I’m humbled by the Bocce Club’s generosity. Their support ensures that countless children experience the joy of the holiday season.”

Babylon Bocce Club

President Santo Crocco expressed pride in his members’ continued dedication to the community, saying:

“Our club has always believed in lifting up our neighbors. If we can help make a child’s holiday brighter, then we’ve done our job. I’m incredibly proud of our members and

the heart they put into this effort every year.”

Town officials thanked the club once again for stepping up in such a meaningful way. Their continued generosity and community spirit remain a shining example of what makes Babylon a strong and caring community.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Kid-Crafted Holiday Decor Ideas

CALLING ALL PET LOVERS

LifeGuard® Spill-proof Backing™ protects your flooring investment by keeping spills contained from soaking through to the pad and subfloor.

There are plenty of handmade holiday crafts to keep little ones happily occupied. Here are some ideas to spark imagination and hours of creative fun.

Easy snow globes

A visit to the craft store will uncover various items that can be turned into snow globes. Look for a plastic cookie jar-like container with a lid that screws on tightly; otherwise, choose glass mason jars. Use a general ratio of one cup of water, three teaspoons of glycerine or an oil like baby oil or mineral oil, and a few teaspoons of glitter. Glue a plastic Christmas tree or snowman figurine to the underside of the lid of the jar with a rubberized adhesive or another glue that will hold up to wet conditions. When dry, replace the lid, invert the jar and watch the snow fall.

Salt dough ornaments

Salt dough is a modeling

dough made from two cups of all-purpose flour, one cup of salt, and about 3⁄4 cup of water. Mix the ingredients together and knead until the dough is smooth and easy to work with. Add more flour if it’s too sticky; more water if it’s too dry. Kids can use cookie cutters to cut shapes from the rolledout dough, or sculpt freehand. Remember to poke a hole through the top of the ornament to thread through string or ribbon later on. While the dough can be dried out by air in about a week, a faster method is to bake in an oven at 250 F for 11⁄2 to two hours, or until the dough is dry and hard. Kids can then paint the dried creations.

Paper gingerbread figures

Children may delight in making life-sized gingerbread girls and boys they can decorate and then hang up on the wall. A roll of brown postal paper will work, as will

other embellishments like markers, paints, crayons, or ribbon. Kids take turns being traced while lying down on a piece of rolled-out paper. Then the general shape is cut out and decorated. Children can raise their arms, bend their legs, or vary their positions to give life to the gingerbread figures.

Winter wonderland

It can be fun to create a diorama or small winter landscape that can be set out with other decorations. Craft stores will likely sell small, plastic evergreen trees this time of year, or they may be available in the model train aisle of a local hobby shop. Trees can be given snowy boughs with a little acrylic paint. Include figures of bunnies, deer and whatever else kids can dream up. A strand of LED, batteryoperated lights can add some illumination to the scene. Secure items to cardboard or foam board.

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December 17, 2025 Babylon by Long Island Media Group - Issuu