Spring ISD elementary and middle school students and their parents are invited to enjoy an evening of free holiday fun featuring arts and crafts, reading, storytelling, and entertainment from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8 at the Dekaney High School cafeteria, 22351 Imperial Valley Dr.

This year’s event – with the theme “Winter Wonderland Around the World” – will offer several new activities not featured in previous years, including a hayride and a special holiday experience based on the classic children’s book “The Polar Express.” As always, a highlight of the annual event will be a brand-new, gift-wrapped book given to each child in attendance.

“This event has become a part of our annual holiday tradition at Spring ISD. It’s always a lot of fun, and we’re excited to be hosting it again in 2017,” said Dr. Lauren Topek, chief of curriculum, instruction and assessment. “It’s especially valuable as a way to reinforce the importance of literacy. We want to encourage our students to read, and we want to make sure they have access to reading materials that they can enjoy over the winter holiday.”

Each student will receive an age- and language-appropriate book after visiting a series of literacy-themed stations manned by volunteers from across the district. Guests will also have the chance to play in the snow, take a photo with Santa and learn more about community programs and services.

The event is underwritten by the Spring ISD Education Foundation and generous donations from the Spring community.

Registration is not required, but students and parents who plan to attend the event are invited to confirm their attendance ahead of time by registering online at www.springisd.org/wonderland2017.