Portage Lakes Kiwanis will continue the cherished holiday tradition that began in 1951 — delivering gifts on Christmas Eve to children throughout the Portage Lakes community. What started over 70 years ago with one sleigh and a small group of volunteers has grown into a festive fleet of 16 sleighs and more than 150 volunteers, spreading joy across most of Coventry Township and the City of New Franklin.
Drop-off Location information:
Gift package drop-offs will be accepted at Coventry and New Franklin Fire Departments. The drop-off locations will open Friday, December 12, 2025, at 8am and close Sunday, December 21, 2025, at 5pm. They will be open daily 8am-8pm. Additionally, the Kiwanis Civic Center will also be open for drop-offs Friday, December 12, 2025, from 12pm to 6pm, closing Sunday, December 21, 2025, at 5pm.
Please remember: Gift packages must be no larger than a shoebox. Gifts must be wrapped and labeled with our address tag. There will be route books and delivery labels available at all drop-off locations.
Santa’s Delivery Schedule:
On Christmas Eve, Sunday, December 24, 2025, sleighs will depart from the Kiwanis Civic Center at 5pm. Loudspeakers will announce Santa’s arrival as he makes his way through local neighborhoods. Families are encouraged to have children dressed and ready to greet Santa, and to keep porch and outdoor lights on to help the sleighs find each stop easily.
Families outside the regular delivery area can visit Santa at 5:30pm at Chase Bank, 5638 Manchester Road, New Franklin.
Parents of physically challenged children who are unable to meet Santa outside are encouraged to call 330-644-8967 in advance to ensure these special visits are not missed.
