Before people wake up from their turkey comas the day after Thanksgiving and begin the official start of the holiday season, the Octagon Center for the Arts, 427 Douglas Ave., will be helping people get a head start on their winter cheer.

More than 125 local and regional artists will feature their handcrafted works of art at the Octagon’s Holiday Open House. Teachers and artists will demonstrate for visitors the “vividness of the season” with free arts and crafts, giving patrons a chance to make something themselves.

The center’s normal staff will be assisted by local volunteers to accommodate traffic during the open house.

Shop manager Amy Jones says the open house is meant to help everyone get in the holiday spirit.

“It’s an event intended to attract all ages, and there will be something for all of our visitors,” Jones says.

From 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., visitors can expect a variety of activities, including food and refreshments, artist demonstrations and prize giveaways.

Downtown businesses near the Octagon will also be having special holiday promotions, including a visit from Santa and free horse carriage rides.

Jones says not only is it a great opportunity to get to know downtown Ames, but it is something people of all ages can enjoy.

“It will be a fun day for all,” Jones says. “The whole family can enjoy an afternoon here.”

Jones says there are many benefits to attending the open house, mostly all of the different activities that will be going on throughout the building.

The Holiday Open House is an occasion that encompasses the entire Octagon building, including the educational classes, retail shop and gallery.

Jones says having the open house before Thanksgiving is not too soon. With the appearance of holiday decorations already peppering the aisles of retailers around Halloween, Jones says people start getting ready for the season early.

“Everyone is just starting to feel the holiday spirit,” she says.

Who: Holiday Open House

Where: Octagon Center for the Arts, 427 Douglas Ave.

When: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Sunday

Cost: Free