Maritime Museum of the Atlantic Launches Holiday Toy Drive

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic invites Nova Scotians to join the attempt to fill the boat Whimsy with new, unwrapped toys for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Halifax Regional Municipality and Bryony House, from Nov. 22 to Dec. 16.

"Nova Scotians are known for their kindness and generosity, especially around this time of the year," said Communities, Culture and Heritage Minister Leonard Preyra. "I wish the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and their partners great success as they kick off their holiday activities and help children have a wonderful holiday season."

The museum will also collect donations for the Mission to Seafarers Christmas Shoebox program. People are asked to donate men's toiletries, toques, gloves, scarves and other items which will be delivered to those working at sea and far from home during the holidays. Families that bring a toy or donations for the Mission to Seafarers will receive free museum admission for their children.

Holiday events at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic will take place over two weekends. The museum will celebrate Shipbuilders Start Here on Dec. 8 and 9 with activities for aspiring shipbuilders, highlighted with a stop animation workshop and boat building demonstrations.

The annual favourite LEGO City by the Sea will open Dec. 9, co-presented by Nova Scotia LEGO Users Group, also known as NovaLUG. This year's layout will feature many wondrous creations including a model of the museum ship CSS Acadia, which celebrates its 100th year in 2013. Dec. 9 will also feature a number of holiday crafts as part of the museum's monthly Family Sunday program.

The activity All A-Boat Toys will be Dec. 15 and 16, featuring Titanic model toy making. That weekend will be the final opportunity to help fill Whimsy with toys.

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is open Tuesday to Sunday. For more information, go to museum.gov.ns.ca/mma .