Hello, Super Fans!

We're rolling out the red carpet for the biggest "A Christmas Story" event yet! With an expected turnout that's off the charts, it's super important to arrive early. Get ready for a packed house and an unforgettable experience!

Beat the Crowd: We're anticipating a huge turnout, so arriving well before 9 AM, regardless of your time slot, is crucial. Early birds not only get the best spots but also enjoy a smoother, more magical experience!

Event Parking and Transportation Updates

• Indiana Welcome Center Parking: Please note that the parking lot at the Indiana Welcome Center will open at 8 AM. Plan your arrival accordingly to ensure a smooth start to your day.

• Trolley Service Schedule: Trolleys will begin their service from the Sharp Athletic Complex, located at 8071 Kennedy Avenue, starting at 8 AM. This gives you a comfortable and convenient way to reach the event without the early morning rush.

• Event Door Opening Time: Get ready to step into the magic as the doors to the event will open at 9 AM. This is when your journey into the world of "A Christmas Story" begins!

Special Facilities for Your Comfort:

• Warming Tents: For those chilly mornings, we've got you covered – literally! Our warming tents will be ready to keep you cozy as you await the event's start.

• Handicap Parking: We ensure accessibility for all our fans. Handicap parking will be available at the Indiana Welcome Center, making it easier for everyone to join in the fun.

Contest Time - Gear Up for the Mommy's Little Piggy Contest!

• For Contestants: Are you joining us for the contest at 12 PM? Get ready to bring your A game! Arrive an hour early to check in, and remember to drink some Ovaltine for that extra boost. Cool prizes await the winners, so you won’t want to miss your chance to shine!

• For Spectators: Eager to watch the excitement unfold? Seating in the theater at the Indiana Welcome Center is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes early to secure a spot and root for your favorite contestants!

📸 Limited Opportunities, Unlimited Fun:

For a once-in-a-lifetime group photo with the entire cast of "A Christmas Story," we have two exclusive time slots each day. Here's when you can join in:

• Saturday, December 16th: Be there at 11:30 AM or 2:00 PM.

• Sunday, December 17th, 2023: Your moments are at 11:30 AM or 1:00 PM.

  
  

Remember, these are group photo ops only (there are no individual photos available), so it's your chance to be part of something truly special!

⚠️ If you’ve pre-ordered your photo op, arriving an hour early is crucial to ensure you don’t miss this incredible opportunity. This isn't just a photo; it's a treasured memory with your favorite characters!

By attending this event, you consent to:

• Filming and Recording: Your image, likeness, and voice may be captured in photos, videos, and audio recordings.

• Usage: By attending this event (inside and outside), you consent to the use of your image, likeness, and voice in any and all media formats, including but not limited to film, video, photographs, audio recordings, digital formats, and any future media technologies, for any purpose. These purposes may include but are not limited to, documentaries, marketing, advertising, promotion, broadcasting, webcasting, exhibiting, and other public and private uses as deemed appropriate by the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority and A Christmas Story Family. Your participation may be used indefinitely without restriction or compensation.

• No Compensation: There is no compensation for being filmed or recorded.

Your presence at the event constitutes your agreement to the above terms and release of the event organizers and affiliated entities from any related claims.

Two Days of Festive Magic:

Indiana Welcome Center Public Event Day 1 (December 16th, 9am to 3pm):

• 9:00am - Journey Through a Christmas Wonderland & Autograph Extravaganza Begins! Step into a world where Christmas isn't just a day, but a whole universe! And hey, grab a pen, because your favorite characters are ready to turn your memorabilia into treasure with their autographs. Bring your smile and your signature-hungry items!

• 11:30am - Say Cheese! Photo Op Time with the Cast: Get up close and personal with the stars. It's selfie o'clock – don't miss your chance to capture the magic!

• 12:00pm - The Epic Mommies Little Piggie Contest: Ready to channel your inner piggie? It’s time for some hilarious, messy, and absolutely unforgettable fun.

• 12:30pm - More Wonderland? Yes, Please! Autographs Round 2: Didn’t get that autograph earlier? Here’s your second chance! Our stars are still pumped and ready to sign.

• 2:00pm - Capture the Magic Again: More Photo Ops with the Cast: If you missed the first round or just want to double up on those magical moments, here’s another shot!

• 2:30pm - The Legendary Santa's Mountain: Get ready for a climactic end to an unforgettable day. Santa’s Mountain awaits – a place of wonder, surprises, and maybe, just maybe, the big guy in red himself!

Indiana Welcome Center Public Event Day 2  (December 17th, 9am to 3pm):

• 9:00am - The Wonderland Returns & Autographs Galore! Round two of our Christmas spectacular kicks off! More autographs, more magic, more memories!

• 11:30am - Snap and Grin: The Photo Op Saga Continues with the Cast: They’re back, they’re fabulous, and they’re ready for their close-up with you. Smile wide!

• 12:00pm - Mommies Little Piggie Contest Strikes Back: Thought yesterday’s contest was fun? Wait till you see what we’ve got in store today!

• 1:00pm - Encore! Encore! Photo Ops with the Cast: Missed the morning's photo fest? Here’s your chance to shine with the stars.

• 1:30pm - Wonderland and Autographs – The Sequel: The autograph fun isn’t over yet! Grab your gear and let's get signing.

• 2:30pm - Last Call for Photo Op Awesomeness with the Cast: This is it – your final opportunity to snap those star-studded moments. Don’t miss out!

Every moment is filled with joy and nostalgia.

Before the Doors Open - Endless Entertainment:

• Parking Made Easy: Guided parking and complimentary trolley rides to the action.

• Big Screen Entertainment: Special messages from the cast await you.

• Crafts, Cocoa, and More: Dive into fun activities and warm up with hot cocoa.

• Delicious Eats and Cozy Comforts: Satisfy your cravings at food trucks and stay warm in our tents.

Once Inside, a Christmas Wonderland Awaits You:

• Animated Window Wonderland: Walk through scenes from your favorite Christmas story, brought to life with animatronics.

• Bronze Tribute to a Triple Dog Dare: Relive Flick’s iconic moment with a photo-worthy statue.

• Santa's Mountain: A dreamy encounter with Santa, complete with a gentle slide.

• Memory Lane Gift Shop: Take home unique souvenirs from our special gift shop.

Live Stream While You Wait:

Virtual Participation: Don’t miss a beat – live stream the event via your Attendees portal.

Instructions on how to login to the attendee portal:

First Time Here? 🌟

☞ Use your magic email (the one you bought your ticket with)

☞ Click this magic button to create your account: Create Your Account.

Been Here Before? ✨

☞Just click here to say 'hello' again: Attendee Area Login.

☞Forget your password? It happens! Click 'reset password' and follow the steps. Remember to check your spam folder if you can't find the reset email.

Need a Helping Hand? 🙌

A Christmas Story Family's support team is like your friendly neighborhood superhero. Visit us them here for help: Ralphie Returns Home Support.

Collect Your Special Finds:

Gift Shop Treasures: Remember to pick up your purchases at the gift shop in the Welcome Center – receipts are your tickets to collect!

Prepare for a Magical Journey!

Get set for an adventure that will whisk you back in time. Review all the details here and gear up for a "Christmas Story" experience like no other!

Extend Your Holiday Adventure in Town!

🎄 More Festive Fun Awaits!

While you're in town for the "Ralphie & The Gang Comes Home" event, why not make the most of your holiday experience? There's a sleigh-full of other festive activities happening around town, perfect for keeping the holiday spirit glowing!

Discover the Holiday Magic Around Town:

• Explore Local Attractions: From twinkling light displays to cozy holiday markets, our town is bustling with yuletide cheer.

• Family Fun: There's something for everyone - whether you're seeking thrilling adventures or peaceful holiday strolls.

• Create Lasting Memories: Make your visit unforgettable with these additional holiday experiences that the whole family will love.

Find Out More:

Curious about all the holiday activities you can enjoy? Visit South Shore's Holiday Activities for a complete guide to making your holiday stay magical and memorable.

Don’t just celebrate the story of Ralphie; live your own holiday story right here in town!