A new play area will open at Capital Mall on Saturday and will feature iconic Jefferson City landmarks and a party room.
The SSM Health Children's Experience at Capital Mall will open at 11 a.m., with a ribbon-cutting ceremony following the mall's annual Christmas parade, which begins at 10:30 a.m.
SSM Health is sponsoring the new play area, located in the Dillard's wing. The 6,000-square-foot space features a variety of three-dimensional structures for kids to play on including an ambulance, helicopter, fire truck and a train, among others.
Iconic Jefferson City landmarks like the Capitol Building, the Missouri River Bridge, the Governor's Mansion as well as St. Mary's Hospital are featured on the walls. The space includes ample seating for parents, bathrooms and both a semi-private and fully private area for nursing mothers. It also features a party room, which may be reserved for a fee by contacting the mall office at 573-893-5437 or online at capitalmall.com.
"Promoting a healthy, active lifestyle begins with the very young. This play area will offer children a fun and safe space to enjoy for many years to come," said Brent VanConia, president of SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital-Jefferson City.
The Christmas parade begins at 10:30 a.m. starting by Capital 8 Theaters and winding around the south side of the mall. Santa will arrive on the final float and enter the mall at the western entrance near Subway and Capital Candy. Then the public is invited to attend the 11 a.m. ribbon-cutting.
Children attending the ceremony will receive a limited-edition SSM Health teddy bear.