More and more places are staying open on Christmas Day. My emotions pull me back and forth concerning this. For one, it is good that the economy will be positively effected by this additional day of business. However, it is sad that a holiday such as Christmas, is not set aside for all families to be together.

Our household is good example. Due to my three grown children’s work schedule, we will not be all together at one time. We are having our main “Christmas” this evening, and a “mini-Christmas” tomorrow. Two will work today (one will miss out on dinner), one works tomorrow. Tonight is the only time my oldest can bring my 2-year-old granddaughter for grammy to enjoy for a few hours. Even though it only allows a short time for a family gathering, we’ll make the most of it and try again next holiday.

Astronaut Jon McBride will be at KSC on Christmas Day.

The theme parks in Central Florida offer a unique way for families to spend Christmas Day together. For the first time ever, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will be open on Christmas Day. Families in the area that want to do something different should definitely check it out. If you have children ages 3-11, they can get in FREE (one child per paying adult)!

“Holidays in Space” will be in full swing on Christmas Day at this Florida attraction. Santa and Mrs. Claus will drop in and carolers will be strolling through the decorated venue. Holiday traditions from countries that partner up with the International Space Station can be enjoyed. If you go, spend the additional fee to go on the KSC Up-Close Tour. While the VAB tour will continue through the next year, the LCC and launch pad tours are set to end March 31, 2013. See them while you can.

You can purchase your advance tickets at www.kennedyspacecenter.com, but the free child ticket is only available at the front gate ticket plaza. So open your presents on Christmas Day and have a most wonderful gift of all – spending a day with your loved ones at the Kennedy Space Center. It is good for the economy and great for families.

Editor’s Note: Capone’s Dinner & Show is also open on Christmas Day. In fact, we’re open every day of the year! On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Al has a special gift for those who come to the show. It is “the family” gathering you’ll want to attend on this special holiday!

Last Updated on October 6, 2023