It's Santa's Kingdom -- We Just Drive Through It

The cool thing about Santa — well, aside from his generous gift-giving — is that he doesn't just hole up at the North Pole and keep the magic of his world to himself. Nope, he authorizes several outposts of his kingdom around the world, and one such special place is out at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park (Six Flags and Fox Creek roads, Eureka). During the most magical time of the year (um, that would be now), the park is transformed into Santa's Magical Kingdom, which is filled with lights and whimsy and elves and fun for all ages. Fortunately, it's easy to be a part of this festive world: All you have to do is pile the family in the car and point your ride in the direction of Eureka. Once you've arrived, you must dim your headlights, so as to see the elves' decorating handiwork better, of course, and you ought to drive below idle speeds so as to appreciate the together time with your loved ones — and also to see the elves' decorating handiwork better. You and yours can experience SMK, as it's known to regulars, from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 5:30 to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday until Sunday, January 2 — holidays included! Admission to the dazzling light display costs $18 per regular vehicle, and you can learn more about the celebratory North Pole satellite, including how to avail yourself of its various modes of public transportation (trains and wagons), by visiting www.santasmagicalkingdom.com. Ho, ho, ho!
Dec. 24-Jan. 2, 2010