Winter came a little early this year at the Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre (CFDC).

Visitors could experience and variety of activities, says Executive Director Peter Cantelon, with music, dancing, opportunities to make crafts, eat snacks, and even listen to a children's choir from the Ukranian school.

The halls of the museum had been decorated, with trees set up by several organizations.

Cantelon says with raffle prizes, pictures with Santa-saurus, visiting the museum was a great way to get into the holiday spirit.

"Winter came a little early so why not celebrate Christmas a little early?. . . You can do it at the museum, while you're being entertained, you can be informed."

Cantelon says this is a great opportunity for locals to see everything that's changed at the CFDC. He says people may have visited years ago, but much has been added or changed during that time.

Visitors could take pictures with Santa-saurus, played by Bruce the Mosasaur.

Another way the CFDC kicked off Christmas was donating all admission fees to Winkler/Morden Habitat for Humanity(HFH).

"Part of the CFDC' mandate is to contribute to and give back to the community," says Cantelon. "When Habitat for Humanity, Sue Nelson, approached us and asked if we'd be interested in coming together, and coming up with some kind of collaborative partnership. . . we jumped at the opportunity."

Nelson says it's been amazing seeing the community support a cause like HFH.

The money raised will be going towards Habitat's first build. Nelson says currently, the organization is in the process of finalizing the families which will move into the homes.

Depending on the size of the families will determine the size of the home and how much money will need to be raised Nelson says. 

The group is looking at a ballpark of around $180,000 to build a home, either on their Winkler or Morden lot. Nelson says where the families live will determine which city the first home is built, but if they fundraise enough Nelson says maybe they can build both homes at the same time.

Cantelon notes admission was by donation, and the day was a great way for the community to learn about Earth's history, while simultaneously support a local organization.