Christmas with a difference as residents head to ‘Lamb-Vegas’ for festive celebrations at Lambwood Heights

It was roulette and drag queens rather than Santa and reindeers at a Lambwood Heights care home’s Christmas party.

More than 70 residents, their families and friends celebrated the festive season in ‘Lamb-Vegas’ with casino games, a magician and entertainment from a 16-piece swing band.

“I really enjoyed it, I liked all the acts, but the swing band was my favourite, they were more my era!” said resident Jackie Smith, 86. “They really looked like they were enjoying themselves. It was very good fun.”

Team members at the 73-bedroomed home decided they wanted to offer residents a new festive experience.  ‘Lamb-Vegas’ brought the opportunity to gamble at the roulette table and dress up in sparkling cowboy hats, plus dancing and singing to our purpose-built home that offers residential, nursing, memory and respite care.

Drag artist, Chamonix Aspen performed Christmas songs and favourite tunes while magician, Ross McCourt, toured the home, taking his tricks to the bedsides of residents.  Swing band, The Earl Greys, got everyone clapping and tapping their feet to festive numbers in the dining room.

“The average age of our residents is in the 80s so they’ve had Christmas many times,” said Lifestyles Manager, Lucy Malchar.  “You’re never too old to do things differently and have new experiences and so Lamb-Vegas was born!  The residents love to see Chamonix performing and she came suitably dressed for a Christmas Vegas celebration.  It’s the first time we’ve welcomed the Earl Greys into Lambwood Heights, and we’ll definitely be having them back, they were fantastic!  It was wonderful to see our residents having such a great time – there’s no age limit to fun and excitement.”

Lucy herself entertained guests dressed as Elvis Presley in a black wig, dark glasses and a white jumpsuit.

“The party was excellent!!” said Heather Noel, whose mum is a resident at Lambwood Heights.  “She had a great time and so did we.  It was entertaining, joyful, and the food was mouthwatering. The staff were so caring and ensured that all residents and guests were well catered for. A lovely day overall.”

Learn more about our care home community at Lambwood Heights