Holiday Festivities

It’s that time of year when the atmosphere has a different feel to it; when houses and city streets are decorated in hues of greens and reds, and lights—multicolored or white—twinkle in the dimming light of the day. Yes, the holiday season is upon us, bringing with it a multitude of festivities to help get into the holiday spirit. Here are just a few of many happenings to spread the cheer.

A long time tradition in Wilmington, North Carolina, is the Festival of Trees, where you’ll find yourself getting lost in a wonderland of beautifully decorated trees. Each year, local businesses and organizations sponsor and decorate trees to benefit Cape Fear Hospice & LifeCareCenter and the programs housed under them.

Aside from admiring the ornamented trees, there are performances that take place throughout the Festival of Trees. Depending on the day you attend, you could hear the 82^nd Airborne Division’s All American Chorus sing, listen to the Murray Middle School Orchestra, or the Port City Tubas. This Festival ends December 8, so make sure you get your tickets and enjoy this little piece of holiday tradition.

In Savannah, Georgia, the water gets involved in the holiday spirit with Christmas on the River & Lighted Parade. The downtown Savannah Riverfront is decked out for Christmas, and ready to help get you in the holiday mood. Start off by enjoying the holiday comedy Elf on Friday, December 6. Browse the various arts and crafts exhibitors and do some of your holiday shopping. But the most exciting part of the two-day event is the arrival of Santa himself during the Lighted Christmas Parade on December 7, starting at the west end of River Street and ending at City Market. Make plans to attend this festive gathering for some holiday cheer, and much more.

If the parade’s not enough, enjoy some of Savannah’s beautiful historic homes decorated in their Christmas best on the Holiday Tour of Homes. It features 12 homes, and the option for an afternoon or evening tour. There’s nothing like seeing home dressed up in lights.

As you wander around the streets of Fredericksburg, Virginia—named for King George II son, the Prince of Wales—you’ll notice that some of its older streets are named after the British royal family. You’ll also notice that it’s also gearing up for the holiday season as well. A great way to enjoy the beauty of the historic city and its holiday décor is to take a Jingle Bell Christmas ride. The 50 minute carriage ride takes you through 40 blocks of historic neighborhoods, where you can enjoy lights and decorated store-front windows, sing along to your favorite holiday songs, and nibble some delicious cookies. You’ll even get a glimpse of the city’s official Christmas tree. The rides continue through January 3, so make sure you bring your blankets and hot chocolate to keep warm on this history filled holiday ride.

Here are some communities in the areas mentioned above: