NEW ITEMS & REGISTRATION

What is new this year?

• GILLIG has gone paperless! Once registered online, you will receive an e-mail with downloadable QR codes for you and any eligible guests which you will need in order to enter the facility and redeem at food and gift stations.
• Two Soft Play areas have been added for toddlers aged 3 years and under (adult supervision required).

What is the QR code needed for and why do I need it?

• As this event is paperless (no tickets), the QR code is REQUIRED for all employees and eligible guests to:
• Enter the facility and check-in
• Receive a catered lunch
• Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus for a photo and to receive a 2026 holiday teddy bear
• To select a fabulous gift for employees’ children and grandchildren ages 2 to 11

PLEASE NOTE: Once you register online, you will receive an e-mail with downloadable QR code(s) for you as the employee and each of your eligible and registered guests. You must be prepared to present at each QR code required station - no exceptions.

SUGGESTION: Save ALL QR codes to your phone before arriving and make sure they are easy to access. You will need the QR code(s) for you and your eligible guest(s) for event entry and redemption throughout the Open House event.

Do unqualified guests need a QR code?

• No, however, they do need to be accompanied by the employee at check-in.

If I am an employee volunteer, do I need to register?

• Yes, it is necessary for volunteers to register in order to receive the QR code for check-in and meal redemption including registering their guest(s).

When and where will I receive my QR code?

• All employees must register themselves and their eligible guests through our Open House website in order to receive the e-mail confirmation which will include the QR code for check-in and redemption.

ELIGIBILITY

Who is eligible to play the games?

• Employees’ children and grandchildren ages 2-11 are eligible to play the games if they are registered.

Is there a maximum number of eligible guests I can register?

• Yes, 8 is the maximum (including yourself), however, if you would like to request additional eligible guests, please send an e-mail to events@gillig.com with the names, ages, and relationships to you as the employee and the event’s team will respond.

Can I bring my parents, aunt, uncle, cousin, sibling, or friend?

• Yes, these individuals fall under the unqualified guest category and are welcome to attend and enjoy the experience with the employee. However, they are not eligible for a meal, gift, and certain activities.

• PLEASE NOTE: Unqualified guests must be accompanied by the employee to enter the plant (please stop by the check-in desk upon arrival). Kindly refer to the eligibility chart.

I do not have kids, is there anything for me at the event?

• This is an opportunity to share your work environment in which you spend your time and contribute your skills and talents. We encourage you to bring a guest and enjoy all the character-themed decorations that have transformed our production plant! Additionally, you will have the opportunity to indulge in a hot lunch, photo opportunities, and bus & train rides.

Who is eligible for a meal?

• Registered employees

• Registered employee’s spouse or 1 guest

• Registered employee’s children and grandchildren ages 2 – 18 years of age

FOOD & MEALS

Can I purchase additional meals?

• No, meals are only provided to registered employee’s and eligible guests.

Can we bring our own food?

• Outside food is permitted.

Will food trucks be available at the GILLIG site?

• No, food trucks will not be available.

Will there be a designated place to eat?

• There will be tables set up in the lunchroom and in the production plant.

What time will lunch be served?

• Lunch will be served in the lunchroom from 11:00am – 1:45pm.

Will there be any special dietary meal options?

• Vegetarian and gluten-free meal options will be available at registration. Please ensure you select this option when registering online.

ACTIVITIES

Are strollers allowed?

• Yes, strollers are allowed. We want to ensure that everyone feels welcome and comfortable. We kindly ask that you be mindful of others and ensure that strollers do not obstruct walkways or create any safety hazards.

Is there a dress code? What should I wear?

• While there is no specific dress code for our event, we recommend dressing comfortably as there will be a lot of walking involved. However, please keep in mind that there will be many photo opportunities throughout the event. We suggest opting for attire that strikes a balance between comfort and being camera-ready.

Will it cost money for my children and grandchildren to play the games?

• There is no charge for any games.

What time will Santa arrive?

• Santa will be available for photos from 12:00pm to 2:00pm

PARKING & ACCESSIBILITY

Where do I park?

• Please park in the main employee parking lot. There will be overflow parking across the street in the dirt lot.
• There will be handicapped parking near the front lobby.

Is this event wheelchair accessible?

• Yes, there will be a wheelchair -accessible route throughout the plant. There may be areas that may not be wheelchair friendly.