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Stories and Songs with Santa Brings Holiday Magic to the Taubman

A festive, heartwarming Santa experience that continues a long-loved Roanoke tradition.

By Shelby Phelan, Macaroni KID Roanoke November 24, 2025

Roanoke’s beloved holiday tradition, Fantasyland, has a new home and a new name! This year, families can experience all the magic they’ve loved for generations at the Taubman Museum of Art with Stories and Songs with Santa—a heartwarming, interactive holiday program perfect for children of all ages.

A Cozy, Interactive Holiday Experience

Stories and Songs with Santa carries forward the charm and nostalgia of Fantasyland with a refreshed setting and the same joyful energy families remember. Santa leads each session with:

  • Original stories
  • Festive songs and guitar music
  • Interactive moments and activities
  • Messages of kindness, sharing, love, and responsibility

Children feel seen, appreciated, and celebrated in this warm program designed to bring families together in the true spirit of the season. Visitors of all ages and abilities are welcome.



Dates & Times for 2025

This event is extremely popular and tends to sell out quickly. Advance tickets are required and non-transferable, so families are encouraged to secure their seats early.

Saturday, November 29

  • 10:15 am
  • 11:30 am
  • 12:45 pm

Saturday, December 6

  • 1:00 pm
  • 2:15 pm
  • 3:30 pm

Saturday, December 13

  • 10:15 am
  • 11:30 am
  • 12:45 pm

Saturday, December 20

  • 10:15 am
  • 11:30 am
  • 12:45 pm

Tickets for all sessions can be reserved through the Taubman Museum of Art here.
These intimate sessions fill quickly, so early registration is highly encouraged.

Stories and Songs with Santa is generously supported by Elizabeth Sowder and Glenn Cecil.

The Heart Behind the Magic: The Santa Cares Project

After securing your family’s spot, you may be delighted to learn that Stories and Songs with Santa is also part of a bigger mission.

The event reflects the values of The Santa Cares Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering the Christmas Spirit all year long. Their belief is simple but powerful: Christmas isn’t about what you receive—it’s about how you love, care for, and uplift yourself and others.

Through creative and educational programming, The Santa Cares Project helps children:

  • Discover and develop their natural gifts
  • Build self-esteem and personal responsibility
  • Embrace kindness and tolerance
  • Express creativity
  • Cultivate joy for living
  • Nurture a belief in the sacredness and goodness of life

The organization’s mission is to inspire peace on earth and goodwill toward all people through a unique Santa-centered experience.

Families can learn more at: https://thesantacaresproject.org/

A Reimagined Tradition You Won’t Want to Miss

Whether you’re continuing a treasured Roanoke tradition or starting a new one, Stories and Songs with Santa at the Taubman Museum offers a magical, meaningful way to celebrate the holiday season.

Be sure to reserve your family's session early—spots are limited, and the memories last a lifetime.