Searching for a unique and meaningful way to bond with your family this holiday season? The Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum’s Annual Holiday Card Workshop may be just what you’re looking for! Perfect for visitors of all ages, this free open-house event will be held from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. on both Saturday, December 7 and Sunday, December 8 .

The museum provides a bountiful spread of patterned papers, postage and rubber stamps, gems and other 3-D embellishments, special cut-out scissors, washi tape, stickers, markers of every color and more! Following their own creative instincts, kids and adults alike can choose whichever supplies they would like to design one-of-a-kind greetings for any holiday, or even just a wintery “Hello!”

The workshop takes place in the museum’s lower-level Atrium, which, for those new to the National Postal Museum, is full of various postal mail transports from over the years, including a real train car, semi-truck (yes, kids can climb in and pretend to drive), a horse-drawn carriage, and airplanes hanging from the ceiling. Thanks to Smithsonian Gardens, the Atrium will be decked out in festive foliage to help get everyone in the holiday spirit.

The layout of the card-making stations and supply tables encourages sharing, friendliness, and a sense of community. And the museum’s pleasant staff and volunteers are always available to answer questions, provide examples of completed cards, or help in any other way. For many, a handmade gesture can mean much more to a friend or a loved one than a store-bought gift. What better way to get into the holiday spirit than taking the time to express your love and gratitude with a heartfelt greeting?