Don't Miss Santa's Arrival at Ice House Mall Saturday

Barrington's Ice House Mall will turn into Christmas Central on Saturday, Dec. 7 as Santa makes his first appearance of the season, arriving by trolley at 12:30 p.m.

Here's a rundown of Saturday's family-friendly events:

• Families will be treated to a magical presentation of "The Nutcracker" by Midwest Dance Collective at 10:30 a.m.

• "Mrs. C" will read a story to the children at 11:30 a.m. A holiday treat of cookies and milk will be provided by Jewel and Chessie’s restaurant.

• Santa will greet children and pose for photos 12:30-1:30 p.m. The "Big C" will be in town to hear what children want for Christmas all the way through Christmas Eve Tuesday, Dec. 24. For Santa’s schedule call (847) 381-6661 or visit www.icehousemall.com. 

• The Rose School "Stingrays" Singers perform at 2 p.m. followed by German Story Hour for children by Language Stars of Barrington at 2:30 p.m.

• Families and children can participate in "Letters to Our Troops" from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Tommy Terri Children’s Boutique, Young Tootsies Women’s and Children’s Shoes, and the Barrington Cultural Art Center.

• The third annual Sunburst Miss Merry Christmas Holiday Pageant will be held at 1 p.m., Sunday Dec. 8. Entry forms at all mall stores. Everyone receives a crown and trophy. For more information visit www.sunburstbeauty.com.

• The Ice House Mall Santa Breakfast will be held 9 a.m.-11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14 at Chessie’s restaurant. For reservations call (837) 382-5020. Stick around after breakfast for a Radio Disney event from 12:30 p.m.-2 p.m. 

• Don't forget to check out the new Holiday Market, open weekends through Dec. 22.