With snowcapped mountains, cheerfully lit streets, and cozy shops, ski towns are undeniably some of the most picturesque places to spend the holidays. If you're already pulling out decorations and rushing around to get presents, we suggest checking out the lineup of holiday-themed classes at the Kimball Art Center. While you can take more intensive, multi-day classes year round, during December, there's a slew of short, economical classes that let you create your own decorations, build gingerbread houses, and so much more.

Fused Glass Ornaments 

If you're on the lookout for unique Christmas ornaments for your own tree or as a gift, you'll definitely want to check out the Fused Glass Ornaments classes. During the class you can use provided patterns or your own ideas to make your fused-glass creation. These classes cover the basics of glass fusion and are open to everyone, from beginners to experts. Skip the Black Friday crowds and join in the fun on Nov. 25th from 2-6 p.m. or Nov. 26th from 12-4 p.m. (for ages 17+).

Cookie Plates and Cookie Decorating

Nothing says holiday cheer like freshly baked cookies. Have fun creating beautiful cookie plates to leave out for Santa on Dec. 3rd from 10-11:45 a.m. While the plates dry, everyone has the chance to decorate cookies for a tasty post-class treat. This is a perfect class to do as a family or simply drop the kids off while you're out shopping (children under five must be accompanied by an adult). 

Ceramic Snowman Sculptures

You don't have to get wet or chilly to build that perfect snowman. In this special preschool-geared class, kids ages 3-5 have the chance to create a snowman out of clay that will last for years to come. Parents and their kids will use water balloons and clay to build their snowman and have the chance to paint their unique creations. The class is Dec. 16th from 10-11 a.m. and the sculptures can be picked up 7-10 days later (in time for Christmas) so they have a chance to properly dry after being fired in the kiln. 

Handmade Clay Ornaments

For another chance to create unique ornaments, check out the Handmade Clay Ornaments class. Open to all ages, this class focuses on making clay ornaments using slab, coil, and pinching techniques as well as cookie cutter stamps to make holiday inspired shapes. The class is Dec. 10th from 10-11:30 a.m. and ornaments can be picked up 7-10 days after they have been fired in the kiln.  

Gingerbread House Sculptures

Building gingerbread houses is traditionally a popular family activity, but it can get a bit messy. THis year, why not leave the clean-up to someone else? Bring all the kiddos in for this fun class of building unique houses and sculptures using icing, candy, and graham crackers. These classes are extremely popular so you'll want to sign up early for the limited spaces. Dates for the class are Dec. 14th from 4:30-5:45; Dec. 16th from 3:30-4:45 p.m.; and Dec. 17th from 10-11:15 a.m. and 12-1:15 p.m. 

We're sure these classes will help you and your family spread the holiday cheer. Find out more details about the classes and registering on our calendar, or see the full schedule on the Kimball Art Center website. Let the festivities begin!