Here is how to support local causes during the holidays
Many Southern Nevada visitors and residents will celebrate the 2023 holiday season through fun activities that also aid local charities.
• The Magical Forest of Opportunity Village opens from Nov. 24 through Dec. 31. This interactive winter wonderland has been a popular holiday destination for 32 years. The site features over 1 million lights, exciting rides, carnival games and food. Proceeds will benefit workshop training programs and create new resources for people with disabilities.
• Opportunity Village also will be supported by proceeds from the Las Vegas Great Santa Run that launches from the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center on Dec. 2. Runners and walkers who participate in the 1-mile and 5K distance events, will encircle downtown Las Vegas in a sea of red Santa costumes. Entertainment festivities will be led by Jabbawockeez, Blue Man Group, Travis Cloer and Clint Holmes beginning at 8 a.m.. The first fun run starts at 10 a.m.
• A tree-lighting ceremony at the Montelago Village of Lake Las Vegas in Henderson will feature a Celtic Christmas, headlined by singer-songwriter Annie Meadows, on Nov. 18 from 6- 7:30 p.m. There is no cost for admission, but attendees are encouraged to donate new pairs of dark socks. The sock drive supports the Shine A Light Foundation that assists the local homeless population.
• Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Foundation’s Holiday Gift & Give campaign collects donations each year from all areas of the community that it serves. Toys for kids and meals for families are distributed during the holiday season.
• The Las Vegas Rescue Mission will stage an annual Toy Giveaway Dec. 16 at Cashman Field in parking lots C and D. The local charitable organization has provided meals and resources to people in need for more than 50 years.