PENHOLD - Hundreds of local and area citizens and their families shared the holiday spirit during Penhold's Community Christmas.
The annual event was presented by the Town of Penhold, the Penhold and District Library and the Penhold and District Museum Society on Nov. 25 at the Penhold Regional Multiplex.
“This is our annual Christmas event to bring the community together,” said Melanie Willerth, events and communications coordinator with the town.
“We've got free sleigh rides outside, a firepit, cookie decorating, pictures with Santa, face painting and free skating tonight.
“There's more people here than we expected, which is always great,” she added, noting that many volunteers helped out with the event.
In addition to indoor and outdoor activities, families enjoyed music, arts and crafts, a silent auction, hot chocolate, popcorn, a Christmas market and the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
The silent auction helped raise money for the Penhold and District Library.
Penhold mayor Dennis Cooper said it was great to see so many families, and area residents out enjoying some holiday cheer and Christmas spirit.
“We are a family oriented town and we're trying to help young families today,” said Cooper. “This (event) kicks off the Christmas season for us.”
He also noted how Mother Nature cooperated and provided some warm temperatures and great outdoor weather for the event and helped bring out the crowds.
“We have the Penhold school singing here, we have the Elnora ladies singing here tonight and we have piano recitals happening,” he added, noting a variety of family activities. “Penhold is the place to launch Christmas.”
The fun-filled, annual event is now in its sixth year, he noted.
“Community Christmas has been a part of the Penhold community for almost six years now. It's been a great event; little kids look forward to this every year,” said Cooper. “It's great to see that.”
Mayor Dennis Cooper
"Community Christmas has been a part of the Penhold community for almost six years now. It's been a great event; little kids look forward to this every year."
