Need a date night this holiday season?

Or just one kid-free night to do some holiday shopping and gift wrapping?

Kids Night Out
Holiday Kidding Around Yoga Program

What: Kids Night Out Presented by Yoga Me Fit, LLC hosted by Lynn Geddes
When: Friday December 12th and Friday December 19th 6:00-9:00pm
Who: Kids ages 3-12 years
Where: Anahata Healing Arts 2424 Drayton Street, Suite B
Why: To give Mom and Dad some Me Time.

Purchase tickets online here

Schedule of Events

Arrival time: 6:00pm. Please ARRIVE on TIME so schedule is not disrupted.
6:00-6:15pm – Mindful awareness practice of placing shoes and bags away/ bathroom break. Music Activity with Yoga Postures – Joggin’ Through the Jungle all ages
6:15-7:00pm- 3- 6 yrs. Kidding Around Yoga Class/ 7-12yrs- Arts and Crafts (Gift Making)
7:00-7:15pm- Toe-ga – a game where you pick up pom poms with your toes and place on your mat all ages
7:15-8:00pm 7-12yrs Kidding Around Yoga Class/ 3-6yrs Arts and Crafts (Gift Making)
8:00-8:15pm Healthy Snack and Drink- Teaching kids about FRESH WHOLE FOODS that come from the ground all ages
8:15-8:45pm- Story time – a performance of Johnny Appleseed presented by Chase Anderson all ages. Expresses the Gift of Giving
8:45-9:00pm – Clean up area and get ready for pick up. Practice of the second limb of yoga known as Niyamas/ Observances – Saucha means Cleanliness.
Patanjali does not say we should stop our poor habits; instead we should practice the Eight Limbs of Yoga. When we stop putting effort into “breaking bad habits” and start practicing/living the Eight Limbs, our bad habits simply drop away from us.

Investment in Education: $40. Purchase tickets online here

Snacks: Organic Apple Cider, Coconut Water, Apples, Bananas or Star Fruit.

Live Streaming of event so you can check in on your little ones online via your phone or computer.

Register

Contact Michelle for Registration via email at anahatahealingarts@gmail.com or click here.

Purchase tickets online here

Contact Lynn for questions about the event via email yogamelynn@gmail.com or tel: 912-308-3410

Yoga Me Fit, email: yogamelynn@gmail.com tel: 912-308-3410, www.yogamefit.com/ Yoga Me Fit is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser. 

WEEKDAY KIDS EVENTS @ THE SANDBOX

The Sandbox Children’s Museum offers regular weekday programs for kids including:

Imagination Hour
Special story followed by a special craft, first come first serve. Included in Admission
Every Thursday at 10:30am

Starting in February

Discover Imagine Grow Program Topics
Tuesdays, 10:30am-11:30am (resuming in February)
First come, first serve, Sign up at Front Desk
All themes and topics parallel the SC Core Curriculum Standards. Geared for Pre school children age 3-5 years.
Empowerment through Play
Through the guise of play and exploration, D.I.G will empower young children by encouraging and guiding development of the skills needed for their success in learning and in life: language and literacy, reading and writing, math and science, and social, emotional, and physical well-being. The Sandbox outreach programs will not only compliment the work being done by parents, caregivers, and educators but will include them in the learning process and provide ideas for them to continue to foster growth and curiosity.

Hours 

Wed-Sat: 10-4 JANUARY 2015 ONLY(CLOSED SUNDAYS, MONDAYS AND TUESDAYS)

OPEN, Monday, January 19, 10a-5p, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

 Tues-Sat: 10-5 September thru March, May (Except January, Wed-Sat, 10a-4pm)

Mon-Sat.: 10-5 April, June thru August

Sunday: Closed

For more information about The Sandbox, visit www.thesandbox.org  or call (843) 842-7645 or e-mail crinehart@thesandbox.org .

The Sandbox Children’s Museum, On Facebook here. 18-A Pope Avenue, next to St. Andrew’s by the Sea United Methodist Church, Hilton Head Is., 29928 www.thesandbox.org The Sandbox Children’s Museum is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Fun holiday deal on a favorite Savannah parent & me program.

Kindermusik December musical monthly play dates offered on Tuesday, December 16 AND Saturday, December 20 at 10:00am.

If you attend the first one, admission to the second is free! This month’s theme is “This is My Dance”. All participants receive an instrument/prop, 10 Kindermusik songs and a BONUS gift at the end of class. Play dates open to ages 0-7.

Enroll today at www.88keysga.com & click on the Kindermusik link or call 912.988.KEYS (5397).

Kindermusik…A Good Beginning Never Ends.”

Kindermusik Savannah, email music@88keysga.com, 912.988.KEYS (5397), www.88keysga.com then click on Kindermusik link. Kindermusik is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Good news for those of you who want your children to take piano or band instrument lessons at Ms. Amy’s School of Music in Savannah.

The extremely popular spot for music lessons now has an additional teacher.

Ruth Murphy has just moved down to Savannah from Massachusetts, where she taught private and small group lessons for 13 years and performed in bands in various communities in the area.

Her piano students of all ages developed their skills and explored the world of music that means so much to them. Her band students in grades 3 through 12 learned the basics of playing their chosen instrument (clarinet, saxophone, trumpet or flute), but they also learned about playing in a school band or a small ensemble.

Ms. Murphy is looking forward to continued sharing of her love of music in Savannah by offering private lessons at Ms. Amy’s School of Music.

Audition prep

In addition to long-term private lessons, Ms. Murphy is also available for short term lessons on clarinet and saxophone to prep students for their Garrison or Savannah Arts auditions.

Connect with Ms. Amy’s School of Music on Facebook here. For more info, visit www.msamyschoolofmusic.com, email msamyschoolofmusic@gmail.com , 912.659.0993, 1 ½ blocks from Daffin Park at 2421 Waters Ave. Ms. Amy’s School of Music is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

View Savannah-area upcoming events related to the 150th Anniversary of the American Civil War, particularly the 150th anniversary this December of General Sherman’s 1864 March to the Sea & the Union occupation of Savannah.

*“Savannah in the Civil War,” A Film by Michael Jordan
6 p.m. December 11 @ Jepson Center, 207 W. York St., on Telfair Square Savannah
Local filmmaker/historian Michael Jordan’s 90-minute film highlights events and people who played a role in Savannah’s Civil War story. More than a dozen historians discuss forces that shaped Savannah’s war years, and thirty local actors portray important Savannahians of the time. Characters include Suzie King Taylor, the only African-American woman to keep a journal during the war, and Francis Bartow, who suggested gray as the Confederate military uniform color. Learn about the massive prisoner-of-war camp in that housed thousands of Union prisoners in Forsyth Park, the dramatic battle between ironcal warships in Ossabaw Sound and other key events.

After the screening, Jordan will participate in Q&A discussion. The movie is 90 minutes long and free for Telfair members or $12 for non-members. Watch a short clip from the film online at www.civilwar-savannah.com.

Details here. 

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*Georgia Historical Society Commemorates Sherman’s March to the Sea with new historical marker
1-2 PM Dec. 11
Join the Georgia Historical Society and the Georgia Battlefields Association as they dedicate a new historical marker commemorating the 150th anniversary of General William T. Sherman’s March to the Sea. The dedication will consist of a brief program to unveil the new historical marker and discuss Sherman’s historic march in the context of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War in Georgia.
Madison Square, Savannah 31401
912-651-2125

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*150th Winter Muster – Civil War Enactment

Fort McAllister State Park, Richmond Hill: This is the site where Sherman ended his “March to the Sea” in December of 1864. Planned commemorations will mark the Capture of Fort McAllister Dec. 13 2014.

Saturday, Dec 13, 2014 9 AM-4 PM with the battle at 5 PM
Come on the actual date — 150 years since General Sherman ordered his troops to take Ft. McAllister. Watch as historians reenact this significant moment in our country’s history. Help make this 150th Winter Muster the greatest one yet. The museum and staging area will be closed to the public at 4pm, and will reopen for the battle at 5pm. 912-727-2339. Details here. 

This 150th Anniversary of Sherman’s ‘March to the Sea’ will bring 300 Re-enactors to Fort McAllister exactly 150 years after Gen. William T. Sherman ended his “March to the Sea” by overtaking the fort.

Additional public events planned for December 11 and 12 as well.
The three-day commemoration begins Thursday, December 11 as Union soldiers set up camp at the Richmond Hill Museum and answer visitors’ questions about the upcoming battle.
On Friday, soldiers will march from the intersection of Highway 144 and Fort McAllister Road to the park, setting up camp when they arrive.
By 9 a.m. on Saturday, the fort will be filled with Confederate soldiers as they prepare for the battle they know is coming. Throughout the day, visitors can watch skirmishes between Union and Confederate troop as they fire muskets and cannons. Guests can also walk among the earthworks and tour a Civil War museum.
Then at 5 p.m., the same time that the actual battle occurred 150 years ago, visitors can watch Union forces breach the fort and take Confederates as prisoners.
When Union troops took control of Fort McAllister in 1864, they marked the end of Gen. Sherman’s “March to the Sea” and enabled him to present Savannah as a Christmas gift to President Lincoln.

“Fort McAllister is a very significant part of Georgia’s history, and we’re especially pleased that our annual Winter Muster falls on the exact date of the original battle” said Park Manager Jason Carter. “This event is expected bring in a large number of visitors to the Richmond Hill and Savannah areas, so it’s good for tourism. They will be dining and shopping at local businesses and making a positive impact on our community.”

Fort McAllister State Park is located on the Ogeechee River. Admission to Winter Muster is $6. To learn more, visit www.GaStateParks.org/fortmcallister or call 912-727-2339.

Location:
Fort McAllister State Park
3894 Fort McAllister Road
Richmond Hill, 31324

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FREE Civil War Medicine event, Savannah, Dec. 17

Join the Savannah Chatham County Public School System at Massie Heritage Center in downtown Savannah at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17 for Civil War Medicine in Savannah, a program devoted toward medical procedures and practices of the Antebellum Era. The guest presenter will be Talley Kirkland, Interpretive Ranger at Fort McAllister State Historic Park. The program will include guided tours of the facility from 5-6 p.m. before the main presentation begins and there is no fee for admission. For more information, search “Massie” at www.eventbrite.com or call (912) 395-5070.

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*Civil War Demonstrations @ Old Fort Jackson, Savannah 
This December 2014 marks the 150th anniversary of the evacuation of Fort Jackson. Several days before December 20, 1864, General William Hardee arrived to take command of Savannah’s defenses. He refused General Sherman’s demand to surrender and ordered the evacuation of the city and all surrounding defenses. To commemorate this event Old Fort Jackson will offer engaging programs throughout the weekend of December 20th and 21st. Details here. 

The Independent Learning Network, Inc. in Savannah is seeking home-based learners, ages 14-19, to participate in a student-led planning committee to host an event with Author Ernest J. Gaines.

Ernest J. Gaines is the author of the following:
A Lesson Before Dying
A Gathering of Old Men
In My Father’s House
A Long Day in November
The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman
Bloodline
Of Love & Dust
Catherine Carmier

Application Forms are due Friday, December 5, 2014. For more information and to submit application form email
academics@iln-ga.org or call 912-355-7557

The Independent Learning Network, Inc. (ILN) in Savannah is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to the academic excellence of home-based and other non-conventional learners.

ILN offers individualized educational plans for homeschoolers – academic levels 3-12, tutoring, monthly field trips and summer programs.

The ILN resource center is located at 7160 Hodgson Memorial Drive, Suite #101. Hours are by appointment.

Independent Learning Network, 7160 Hodgson Memorial Dr., Suite 101, 912-355-7557, www.iln-ga.org On Facebookhere. Savannah Independent Learning Network is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser. 

Kindermusik with 88 Keys Piano in Savannah announces its December play dates:

December’s musical monthly play date will be offered twice this month:
Tuesday, December 16 at 10am and Saturday, December 20 at 10am. Play dates are open to children 0-7 years.

This month’s theme is “This is My Dance”. Cost is $15 (siblings are only $5.00).
Each participant will receive an instrument/prop, 10 Kindermusik songs and a bonus gift at the end of class.
Also, in December, if you attend the first playdate, admission to the second play date is free (materials given out once)!!!
Come enjoy double delights in December with Kindermusik!

To enroll online, visit www.88keysga.com & click on the Kindermusik link or call 912.988.KEYS (5397).

Kindermusik…A Good Beginning Never Ends.”

Kindermusik Savannah, email music@88keysga.com, 912.988.KEYS (5397), www.88keysga.com then click on Kindermusik link. Kindermusik is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

FOR MORE PARENT & ME ACTIVITIES IN SAVANNAH & HILTON HEAD IS. , CLICK HERE. 

Join Kindermusik in Savannah for brand new December themes starting Monday, December 1st!

For babies 0’s and 1’s: Mondays at 9:20AM for “Old MacDonald!”.
Tune up Baby’s listening ears, because we’re off to the farm. With a heehaw here, and a cock a doodle there, this unit is packed with fun, animal-themed activities that emphasize focus, listening discrimination, and cognition.

For toddlers 2’s and 3’s: Mondays at 10:15AM for “Silly All Over!”.
While enjoying giggles, tickles, songs and games, your toddlers will also experience developmentally appropriate activities such as stop and go, up and down, use their fine motor skills, and of course, enjoy the joy and laughter of music.

NEW for the month of December: a class for 4’s and 5’s: Monday afternoons at 3:50PM
December’s theme is “All Keyed Up!” There is magic to be found in those 88 keys. Together we’ll explore staccato and legato through instrument play, movement and musical notation. Join Kindermusik & explore the world of keyboard instruments.

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Kindermusik December Playdate for ages 0-7

The monthly musical playdate for December includes a double delight: the December playdate, “This is my Dance!”, will be offered TWICE.
Choose between either Tuesday, December 16 at 10AM or Saturday, December 20 at 10AM
If you attend the first playdate, admission for the second playdate is FREE* Playdates are open to children ages 0-7 and all participants receive an instrument/prop, 10 Kindermusik songs and a BONUS gift at the end of class.
Tuition is $15;siblings are only $5

Online enrollment is available now at www.88keysga.com and spaces are limited, so sign up today and experience the magic of Kindermusik with your child in December! Kindermusik …where a good beginning never ends.
* admission to second play date is free; materials are only given out once.

Visit www.88keysga.com & click on the Kindermusik link or call 912.988.KEYS (5397).

Kindermusik…A Good Beginning Never Ends.”

Kindermusik Savannah, email music@88keysga.com, 912.988.KEYS (5397), www.88keysga.com then click on Kindermusik link. Kindermusik is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

FOR MORE PARENT & ME ACTIVITIES IN SAVANNAH & HILTON HEAD IS. , CLICK HERE. 

Bring the kids to Old Fort Jackson in Savannah on Sat. Dec. 20th & 21st for a special demonstration and participation.

This December marks the 150th anniversary of the evacuation of Fort Jackson. Several days before December 20, 1864 General William Hardee arrived to take command of Savannah’s defenses. He refused General Sherman’s demand to surrender and ordered the evacuation of the city and all surrounding defenses. To commemorate this event Old Fort Jackson will offer engaging programs throughout the weekend of December 20th and 21st.

On Saturday, December 20th, join members of the 22nd Georgia Heavy Artillery as they prepare to follow General Hardee’s orders to render the fort useless to the Union Army and evacuate.

On Sunday, December 21st learn about the conditions of the fort and discover what happened during the Union Occupation. Get to know the 55th Massachusetts, an African American unit that that fought in a number of battles in the south and were the last Federal Troops ever to be stationed at the fort.

Throughout the weekend experience the life of the soldiers at Fort Jackson during the last days of the Civil War.

Activities both days begin at 10 am and will include musket demonstrations, cannon drill and firing, marching, and other activities that soldiers participated in while at Fort Jackson.

Where
Old Fort Jackson
1 Fort Jackson Road
Savannah, GA 31404
912.232.3945

Sat. Dec. 20-Sun. Dec. 21 2014

For hours & admission costs, click here.

Coastal Heritage Society manages Old Fort Jackson, a historic fort located on the Savannah River three miles east of downtown Savannah, www.chsgeorgia.org/, Coastal Heritage Society is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Winter Reading Program
Dec. 1 to 31
All Live Oak Public Libraries branches
Ages 0 to 18
Children and teens are invited to participate in this year’s Winter Reading Program at Live Oak Public Libraries.

To get started reading for prizes this winter break, stop by any Live Oak Public Libraries branch to sign up and pick up your Winter Reading Record.

Each time you read a total of three hours, return your reading record to the library for prize (while supplies last) plus an entry form to win one of the Grand Prizes, a 7” tablet. All entry forms for the Grand Prize must be submitted by Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2014, to qualify. Grand Prize drawings will be held the first week of January.

Learn more here.

Parent and Child Holiday Clay Workshop & Fused Glass Ornament Workshop will be offered Dec. 6 2014 @ City of Savannah’s Department of Cultural Affairs studios at 9 W. Henry St.

Register now online here or by calling (912) 651-6783.

Cost

Fused Glass Ornament Workshop fee is $15 per person. Holiday Clay Workshop is $15 per parent & child duo. Fees include instruction, use of studio space, use of equipment and all materials and tools required. Space is limited and advance registration is required. Credit cards are accepted.

Art classes & workshops @ City of Savannah’s Department of Cultural Affairs studios. 9 W. Henry St. (912) 651-6783 On Facebook here. On Twitter here. Savannah Dept. of Cultural Affairs is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

Did you know there is an amazing youth orchestra program right here in Savannah?

If you’re not already involved, come and listen to this Sunday’s Fall concert at Armstrong in Savannah and hear students doing a great job.

Armstrong Atlantic Youth Orchestra
Neil Casey, Conductor

The Atlantic Chamber Orchestra
Lyric Youth Orchestra AND Debut Strings & Lyric Strings Ensembles

Fall Concert
Sunday, November 23, 2014
ASU Fine Arts Auditorium
3:00 PM
Adults $10.00
All students FREE
Tickets: available at the door

Armstrong Atlantic Youth Orchestra organizers are also a great resource to find Savannah-area music instructors.

Learn more here.

Scribble Art Studio in Savannah & Pooler offer oodles of ways to keep your kids creating this holiday season including kids workshops where they make & wrap a present.

To learn more about Scribble’s holiday workshops, ongoing art classes & children’s birthdays in Pooler & Savannah, click here or call 912-713-7376 or email info@thescribbleartstudio.com

Savannah location: 212 E 37th St, Savannah, 31401

Pooler location: 115 Canal St, Pooler, GA 31322

Scribble Art Studio in Savannah & Pooler also offers private & group art classes, summer art camps, adult art parties & children’s birthday parties, both in the studio & at-home DIY art birthday kits. For gifts, Scribble as art kits & gift certificates. For more information, contact artist Carrie Christian at (912) 713-7376 or email info@thescribbleartstudio.com  . Click here for more info. Scribble Art Studio is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

For the first time ever, the Savannah Philharmonic is offering a Family Holiday Pops concert this holiday season!

Along with special guests the Savannah Children’s Choir, the Philharmonic will feature performances from the popular films Frozen and The Polar Express, as well as traditional holiday classics

The Family Holiday Pops concert will be Saturday, December 13 at 3PM

The one-hour musical event will be held at Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, one of the most visited attractions in historic Savannah.

General admission tickets are $25 for a family of four or $10 for a single ticket. Learn more here. 

“As a cultural arts organization, we feel it is important to give back to the community and generate interest in music and the arts,” said David Pratt, executive director. “That is one reason we priced tickets for the Family Holiday Pops concert so reasonably, so everyone can enjoy the spectacular sensation of listening to beautiful music.”

For more information about the Family Holiday Pops concert, or about the Annual Holiday Pops evening performances, please contact the Savannah Philharmonic at 912.525.5050 or visit savannahphilharmonic.org.

FOR MORE SAVANNAH-AREA HOLIDAY FAMILY EVENTS, VISIT OUR HOLIDAYS FUN GUIDE BY CLICKING HERE. 

Attention parents of all homeschool students in the Greater Savannah area: you’re invited on a FREE field trip for area homeschoolers.

Coastal Wetlands/Mitigation Bank Tour
Presented by USArmy Corps of Engineers
Friday, November 21, 2014
9:45 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
J. F. Gregory Park (playground area)
520 Cedar Street, Richmond Hill, GA
912-756-3345, City Hall-Richmond Hill

Dress Code: Field Attire*
*long pants/jeans, long sleeve shirts, closed shoes/sneakers, layered clothing for weather changes, hats, bug spray, etc.
Cost: FREE
Pack a healthy lunch and join  Independent Learning Network, Inc.  after the tour under the covered pavilion

RSVP: info@iln-ga.org or (912)355-7557

Independent Learning Network, Inc., email info@iln-ga.org, tel: (912)355-7557  7160 Hodgson Memorial Dr., Suite 101,www.iln-ga.org On Facebook here. Savannah Independent Learning Network is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser. 

Colonial Christmas at Wormsloe Historic Site, Savannah
Sunday, Dec 21, 2014 12 PM to 4 PM

Participate in activities such as caroling, burning of the yule log, dancing to live period music, and other holiday observances of the colonial period, including games and refreshments.

$4.50-$10. 912-353-3023.

Wormsloe Historic Site, 7601 Skidaway Rd Savannah, 31406, http://gastateparks.org/Wormsloe  

FOR MORE FAMILY HOLIDAY EVENTS IN SAVANNAH & NEARBY, CLICK HERE. 

On December 19-20, Fort Pulaski National Monument will commemorate the Confederate Nog party of 1861 with the night-time Fort Pulaski Candle Lantern Tour.

Hot cider, cookies, caroling and weapons firings will allow guests to re-live the festive occasion of 1861.

Fort Pulaski commemorates the Confederate Nog party of 1861 each year during the holiday season. The long-lived Savannah tradition provides night-time tours of the historic fort by candlelight and oil lamps.

The original party, held at Christmas time in 1861, gave the Confederate garrison at Fort Pulaski a respite from the tension of impending battle. The fort casemates, armed with cannons, were decorated with holiday garlands. As one soldier commented, tables groaned under the weight of fine delicacies sent down from the city. With song and good cheer, the men celebrated a light-hearted moment as the dark clouds of war gathered over Savannah.

Guests will have the unique experience of a guided tour for the fort by moonlight. Hot cider and cookies, music, caroling and night-time weapons firings will allow guests to re-live the festive occasion.

Advance reservations are required for this year’s event. The fort begins taking reservations in November. Reservations can be made in person or by phone at 912-786-5787, extension 109. The cost of the program is $5 per adult. Children 15 and under are free, but reservations must also be made for children. For more information, please visit www.nps.gov/fopu or call (912) 786-5787.

Other holiday events on Tybee Island 

*The Lights On for Tybee Celebration begins on Fri. Dec. 5 at 6:30PM, when Mayor Jason Buelterman lights the Christmas tree downtown at the Tybrisa/Strand Roundabout. The evening will include a variety of live entertainment, extended store hours, specials and complimentary refreshments at participating locations throughout downtown Tybee Island. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will also make a special appearance. Children can also enjoy gently falling snowflakes from the Sea & Breeze throughout the evening.

*The Tybee Island Christmas Parade, 1 PM Saturday, Dec. 6 Runs from the 14th Street beachfront lot (behind Ocean Plaza) to the YMCA on 5th Street.  Mr. & Mrs. Claus then are led to the Tybee Gym for photo time & family fun.

*Tybee Island New Year’s Eve Fireworks Celebration, Wed. Dec. 31 at the stroke of midnight. Enjoy the fireworks from the pier, the beach or anywhere on the east side of the island.

* Tybee Polar Plunge at the Tybee Pier & Pavilion, noon Thursday, Jan. 1 2015 thousands of island visitors and residents decked out in their favorite costumes will dive into the frigid Atlantic Ocean for a brisk and refreshing way to start the New Year.

Fort Pulaski National Monument is located on U.S. Highway 80, 15 miles east of Savannah en route to Tybee Is.  For more information, click here or call (912) 786-5787.

FOR MORE SAVANNAH AREA HOLIDAY EVENTS, CLICK HERE. 

150th Winter Muster
Sat. Dec 13, 2014 9 AM-4 PM

Civil War History Event: Come join Fort McAllister in Richmond Hill on the actual date — 150 years since General Sherman ordered his troops to take Ft. McAllister. Watch as they reenact this significant moment in our country’s history. Help make this 150th Winter Muster the greatest one yet. The museum and staging area will be closed to the public at 4PM and will reopen for the battle at 5 PM. 912-727-2339.

This 150th Anniversary of Sherman’s ‘March to the Sea’ will bring 300 Re-enactors to Fort McAllister exactly 150 years after Gen. William T. Sherman ended his “March to the Sea” by overtaking the fort.

Additional public events planned for December 11 and 12 as well.
The three-day commemoration begins Thursday, December 11 as Union soldiers set up camp at the Richmond Hill Museum and answer visitors’ questions about the upcoming battle.
On Friday, soldiers will march from the intersection of Highway 144 and Fort McAllister Road to the park, setting up camp when they arrive.
By 9 a.m. on Saturday, the fort will be filled with Confederate soldiers as they prepare for the battle they know is coming. Throughout the day, visitors can watch skirmishes between Union and Confederate troop as they fire muskets and cannons. Guests can also walk among the earthworks and tour a Civil War museum.
Then at 5 p.m., the same time that the actual battle occurred 150 years ago, visitors can watch Union forces breach the fort and take Confederates as prisoners.
When Union troops took control of Fort McAllister in 1864, they marked the end of Gen. Sherman’s “March to the Sea” and enabled him to present Savannah as a Christmas gift to President Lincoln.

“Fort McAllister is a very significant part of Georgia’s history, and we’re especially pleased that our annual Winter Muster falls on the exact date of the original battle” said Park Manager Jason Carter. “This event is expected bring in a large number of visitors to the Richmond Hill and Savannah areas, so it’s good for tourism. They will be dining and shopping at local businesses and making a positive impact on our community.”

Fort McAllister State Park is located on the Ogeechee River. Admission to Winter Muster is $6. To learn more, visit www.GaStateParks.org/fortmcallister or call 912-727-2339.

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A Soldier’s Serenade with the Eighth Georgia Regimental
Sat. Dec 20, 2014 noon-4 PM

Step back in time as the Fort McAllister is filled with the sounds and songs of the Eighth Georgia Regimental Civil War Band. This is a unique opportunity to experience the “in the moment” of the Civil War era with this phenomenal instrumental band. Admission and time of event TBA. 912-727-2339.

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Christmas Carols Around the Campfire
Sat. Dec 20, 2014 7 PM-8 PM

Fort McAllister campground guests are invited to come to a campfire at the assembly shelter where the choir from Saint Elizabeth Episcopal Church will be singing Christmas Carols. You are welcome to join them in singing carols that we all know. Get your Jingle on and come get in the Christmas spirit. $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

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First Day Hikes

Thurs. Jan 1, 2015 10 AM-2:30 PM
Join Fort McAllister at 10AM for a 3 mile nature hike with Ranger Rowe on the Redbird Creek Trail. This hike is medium difficulty and requires sturdy shoes and water. At 1:00 there will be a History Hike in and around the fort. An Interpretative Ranger will walk you through the past and tell you about the daily life at Fort McAllister during the war. $3. Children under 5 free. $5 parking. 912-727-2339.

Location:
Fort McAllister State Park
3894 Fort McAllister Road
Richmond Hill, 31324

FOR MORE FAMILY HOLIDAY EVENTS IN SAVANNAH & NEARBY CLICK HERE. 

The Sandbox Children’s Museum on Hilton Head Is. is turning 9!
Wednesday, November 26, 2014, 10am-2pm
(closing at 2pm, space & activities will be limited in the event of rain)

The museum parking lot will be turned into a carnival, complete with bounce house, “corn hole”, our new “building blocks”, carnival games with prizes, a cotton candy station, special activities in the museum, holiday crafts (ornaments & decorating sugar cookies), a BBQ lunch with all the “fixins”, and of course, birthday cake.

Special event prices:
Adults & Children $10; up to 12 months FREE
($8 for members, seniors and active military)
(all proceeds benefit the museum’s non-profit programs)
(sorry, coupons not valid for admission)

Please feel free to call for more info and how to be an event sponsor or birthday donor.

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‘Twas the Night Before Christmas Book Reading by Santa Claus, Dec. 23 2014

Santa Claus himself will read the classic and then visit with children at the Museum (10:30-12noon). Space is limited to the reading (at 10:30am) so sign up when you get here, first come first serve. Included in Museum Admission

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WEEKDAY KIDS EVENTS @ THE SANDBOX

The Sandbox Children’s Museum offers regular weekday programs for kids including:

Imagination Hour
Special story followed by a special craft, first come first serve. Included in Admission
Every Thursday at 10:30am

Discover Imagine Grow Program Topics
Tuesdays, 10:30am-11:30am
First come, first serve, Sign up at Front Desk
All themes and topics parallel the SC Core Curriculum Standards. Geared for Pre school children age 3-5 years.
Empowerment through Play
Through the guise of play and exploration, D.I.G will empower young children by encouraging and guiding development of the skills needed for their success in learning and in life: language and literacy, reading and writing, math and science, and social, emotional, and physical well-being. The Sandbox outreach programs will not only compliment the work being done by parents, caregivers, and educators but will include them in the learning process and provide ideas for them to continue to foster growth and curiosity.

Program Topics
November
Nov. 18 Science/Staying Healthy/The Body

December
Dec. 2 Science/Staying Healthy/Dental
Dec. 9 Science/Staying Healthy/Emotions
Dec. 16 Science/Experimenting with Fun!/Science Experiments

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NOON Year’s Eve Event

NOON Year’s Eve Celebration December 31, 2014, 10am-2pm
Want to celebrate the New Year without staying up till midnight?
Come to The Sandbox for a family fun event guaranteed to kick off your New Year on the right foot!

Featuring: Special games, activities including our bounce house (weather permitting) and a chance to play in the snow, fun arts & crafts, light lunch, and party favors!

Event Price: $10.00 for Adults and Children 1 and over. Up to 12 months FREE. (Members, Active Military and Seniors $8.00)
*Coupons not valid for this event*

For more information about The Sandbox, visit www.thesandbox.org  or call (843) 842-7645 or e-mail crinehart@thesandbox.org .

The Sandbox Children’s Museum, On Facebook here. 18-A Pope Avenue, next to St. Andrew’s by the Sea United Methodist Church, Hilton Head Is., 29928 www.thesandbox.org The Sandbox Children’s Museum is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Fused Glass Jewelry (2 weeks)
Instructor: Stephanie VanGeel
Join this fun hands-on class and learn how to layer glass to create jewelry.
Students will create rings, necklaces and much more using a variety of techniques.
Ages 8+, Sat., Nov. 15 & 22, 10am-12pm
$55/$50 city resident

Teen Jewelry (4 weeks)
Instructor: Jessica Duckworth
This introductory class will teach young students the fundamentals of jewelry design.
Students will work with wire wrapping, beading and other techniques to create necklaces,
bracelets and earrings.
Ages 12+, Tues. Nov 18 – Dec. 9, 4:15-5:15pm
$65/$60 city resident

Register

Class schedule and registration forms are available online here or by calling (912) 651-6783. Class fees here. 

Art classes & workshops @ City of Savannah’s Department of Cultural Affairs studios. 9 W. Henry St. (912) 651-6783 On Facebook here. On Twitter here. Savannah Dept. of Cultural Affairs is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

Make sure your kids get a chance to enjoy this popular Savannah holiday tradition: the Savannah Santa Train.

This is Savannah’s own Polar Express themed event with train rides, holiday arts and crafts, story time, facepainting and visits with Santa.

When: Saturday, December 13, 2014 from 9A until 5P
Where: Georgia State Railroad Museum, 655 Louisville Road, Savannah, GA 31411
How Much: $15 per person for all those older than 18 month old

PRE-REGISTRATION and PRE-PAYMENT Required.

Register by clicking here. 

Space is limited and this event always sells out so register soon.

Highlights include:

♦ The first train ride departs at 9am. The last ride leaves at 4:30pm. Each ride is approx. 15 minutes and riders will debark at the Paint Shops for great holiday fun!

♦ Crafts will be ongoing all day from 9am-5pm

♦ Santa will be at the museum all day long!

♦ Story Time will be every hour starting at 10am and ending at 4pm.

♦ Facepainting will be from 12pm to 3pm in the Roundhouse. Each face will be $3-CASH ONLY.

♦ Leopold’s Ice Cream will be for sale from 10am until 5pm. $3-$5 – CASH ONLY.

Learn more here. 

Georgia State Railroad Museum, 655 Louisville Road, Savannah, 31401, http://chsgeorgia.org/ On Facebook here.Coastal Heritage Society is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

You are invited to Savannah Harbor Foundation’s 14th annual Gingerbread Village Competition at The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa.

Visit the Gingerbread Village Nov. 25-Dec. 30

Each year thousands of visitors make the pilgrimage to the Westin to delight in these culinary creations!

Come view this spectacular display in the Westin lobby November 25 through December 30, 2014.

Free and open to the public. (Please schedule large group visits in advance.)

This year’s theme: Scenes of the South.

For more information, please contact 912.596.2525. or email Amanda.marks@westin.com

Make the trip to see the Gingerbread village even more special by catching the free ferry from River Street to the Westin. Details here.

The Classical Conversations  communities of Coastal Georgia help equip, encourage and support parents in their homeschooling endeavors.

For more information, email Michele Stuchell at mstuchell@ClassicalConversations.com.

To find details on open houses and information meetings, please visit www.ClassicalConversations.com.

What Is Classical Conversations?

Classical Conversations supports homeschooling parents by cultivating the love of learning through a Christian worldview in fellowship with other families. Organizers believe there are three keys to a great education: classical, Christian, and Community.

CLASSICAL
The first key to a great education is that it is “classical.” By that we mean the classical model of education which has proven effective over time. This model has cultivated great leaders in the arts of freedom. Aristotle, Newton, C.S. Lewis and Thomas Jefferson are just a few examples of great thinkers who were educated classically.

A classical education is ideally suited to children’s natural learning style. The classical model divides the learning process into three stages: grammar, dialectic, and rhetoric. In the grammar stage, children devour facts. In the dialectic stage, children ask many questions as they sort and evaluate these facts. In the rhetoric stage, teenagers synthesize their knowledge and apply it. Learn more.

CHRISTIAN
From beginning to end, the Classical Conversations curriculum is founded on the Bible as the inerrant Word of God. Classical Conversations teaches that all subjects are not only interconnected but that God is the author and creator of each subject. Each subject informs us more about the true nature of God, and a better understanding of God informs us about each subject that is taught. Learn more.

COMMUNITY
Classical Conversations plants and supports local communities who meet once a week across the United States and in several other countries. Being part of a like-minded and committed community provides parents and students encouragement, fellowship, and accountability. To find a community near you click here.

PARENT TRAINING
Classical Conversations focuses on training parents to be great classical educators at home by hosting three-day summer conferences in many locations. These conferences are called Parent Practicums because they give parents practical training in difficult subjects like math, logic, and Latin. Conference speakers also model classical teaching methods, such as the art of asking questions and leading discussions. Parent Practicums are free and available to anyone interested in classical, Christian education. Parents who are willing to become tutors receive trainings during the afternoon sessions of the 3-day conference and receive additional on-line support throughout the year. Learn more.

Classical Conversations, www.ClassicalConversations.com, On Twitter here.  On Facebook here. Email mstuchell@ClassicalConversations.com . Classical Conversations is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Fort Pulaski National Monument in Savannah salutes veterans with special programs Nov. 8 & 9 2014 & free admission on Veterans Day Nov. 11.

November 8-9: Fort Pulaski National Monument will honor our nation’s veterans with a special living history event in the historic fort. The 48th New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment will recreate many aspects of daily life at a major Civil War-era post.

A variety of programs will be offered throughout the weekend allowing visitors to learn about military inspections, mail calls, barracks life, and infantry drills. A special military salute to veterans will be offered at 4 p.m. on Saturday.

FREE admission Nov. 11: To commemorate Veterans Day, the National Park Service will waive all entrance fees. Savannah’s national park – Fort Pulaski National Monument – will be fee free Tuesday, November 11.

Fort Pulaski National Monument is located on U.S. Highway 80, 15 miles east of Savannah. For more information, click here nps.gov/fopu or call (912) 786-5787.