First Lady Susan Hutchinson recently announced the list of public events and projects scheduled at the Arkansas Governor’s Mansion during the upcoming 2019 holiday season. It will include the Mansion’s first participation in the Marine Toys for Tots campaign as an official toy “drop site” during an open house on Sunday, Dec. 8. The First Lady encourages those planning to attend the Mansion Open House to bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate. 

“We are thrilled to partner with Marine Toys for Tots, an amazing organization that uses the gift of toys to spread a message of hope to needy children here in Arkansas and beyond,” said the First Lady. “What better way to experience the joy of Christmas than to show love and kindness to our nation’s most valuable resource – our children.” 

The 2019 season will celebrate the theme “Peace on Earth” and officially begins with the free Christmas Open House from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. It will feature musical performances by the Little Rock Central High School Orchestra. The Open House will also offer free miniature train rides for children, as well as special appearances by Santa Claus. 

Christmas teas will also be hosted by the First Lady at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17, and Wednesday, Dec. 18 (First Lady’s Children’s Tea). The Dec. 17 tea will feature performances by the Episcopal Collegiate School’s (Little Rock) choir. The Dec. 18 Children’s Tea will feature a special appearance and performance by Santa Claus. 

Tickets for the holiday teas are $50 each and are available at friendsofthemansion.org or by calling 501.324.9805. 

The Mansion holiday gift shop will also be open during these events, offering unique gift items for sale, including the 2019 Mansion Christmas ornament. It can also be purchased at friendsofthemansion.org. All proceeds from these events benefit the Governor’s Mansion Association, a nonprofit organization that raises funds for the renovation, improvement, furnishings and endowment of the Mansion.