In preparation for the holidays, many enjoy getting out into the community to partake in and enjoy local festivities. However, some may not know where to look for these celebrations. Following are five activities being held in the community to celebrate the holiday season.
1. Holiday Lights on the Lake at Lakemont Park
Lakemont Park is holding their annual Holiday Lights on the Lake Nov. 15 through Jan. 5. Lights on the Lake is a drive through light show featuring over 200 festive light displays. Tickets are $18 per vehicle, $40 per van or $75 for unlimited visits. The store at Lakemont Park is also set up with a holiday store, train display, visits with Santa and a refreshments stand. There is no admission cost for the store and it can be visited separate from Lights on the Lake. More information is available on Lakemont Park’s website.
2. The Everett Railroad’s Santa Express
The Santa Express is a steam engine ride through the countryside presented by the Everett Railroad. Rides last for one hour, and are followed by visits with Santa. The Santa Express has rides Nov. 29-Dec. 1, Dec. 6-7, Dec. 13-15 and Dec. 20-22. Tickets are $6-$7 for children under 2-years-old, $21-$24 for children, $28-$32 for adults and $25-$29 for seniors. For specific ride times, information is available on the Everett Railroad website.
3. Christmas at The Baker Mansion
The Blair County Historical Society is hosting a series of events at Baker Mansion throughout the holiday season. Christmas tours of the mansion are being held during usual tour times (Friday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Tickets are free for children 3-years-old and younger, $5 for children 4-12 years-old and $10 for everyone 13-years-old and older.
The Mansion is also holding visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus Dec. 7, 8, 14 and 15. Santa will visit Dec. 7 and 15 to greet guests from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Mrs. Claus will greet guests Dec. 8 and 14 from 1:30-3 p.m.. During her visits, Mrs. Claus will also read Christmas stories to guests. More information is available through the Blair Historical society’s website.
4. “Santa’s Coming to Town!” At the Horseshoe Curve
On Dec. 7, The Horseshoe Curve National Historic Landmark will be kicking off the holiday season with a visit from Santa. Doors will open at 5 p.m., and Santa will arrive between 6-7 p.m.. Tickets are $7 per person, and include admission to the event as well as refreshments that will be offered. Tickets can be purchased through the Railroaders Memorial Museum website.
5. Chorus and orchestra concert
On Dec. 13, the chorus and orchestra will perform in their annual holiday concert. The concert will be held in the AAHS auditorium at 7 p.m.. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $4.
