The Southern Pines Recreation and Parks Department is offering several holiday-related events and camps for local residents.

"Due to the initial success of Fun Camp for Year Round School students, we have added a new session right before the holiday break," says Program Coordinator Sue Gillis.

Dec. 18-21 and Jan. 2-5 are the next sessions for Fun Camp specifically designed for children ages 5 (currently attending kindergarten) through 13.

The camp runs 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Train House. A later pickup time of 5:30 p.m. is available for an additional fee. The camp features games, sports, arts and crafts, trips, and innovative activities.

"Take advantage of our early-bird registration of $65 for residents ($130 for non-residents)," says Gillis.

The next installment of mini-camps is the Active Kids Camp for children ages 8-12 that features fitness fun -- muscles, target heart rate, yoga, pilates, dance, step aerobics -- all rolled into one high-energy camp.

"Instructor Ms. AnnMarie taught fitness fun to our day campers this summer, and they had an absolute blast," says Gillis.

Pre-registration is a must. Camp dates are Friday, Dec. 1, from 4 to 6 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 2, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Train House. Camp fee is $20 for Southern Pines residents and $40 for non-residents.

Two mini-camps are set up with a holiday theme.

Holiday Decorations Mini-Camp for children ages 5-12 will be held on Friday, Dec. 8, from 4 to 6 p.m., and Saturday, Dec. 9, from 9 a.m. to noon.

Participants will make a ceramic gingerbread man mug and plate, doorknob hanger, calendar, s'mores man marshmallow ornament and paper gift box. Karen Fellema instructs. Pre-registration is a must to ensure plenty of supplies. The cost is $35 for residents and $70 for non-residents.

Holiday Elves/Winter Wonder-land Mini-Camp is sure to please the 4-6-year-old crowd on Friday, Dec. 15, and Saturday, Dec. 16. Register is $20 for Southern Pines residents and $40 for non-residents.