Community Tree Lighting & Yuletide Sampler 2015
Before the snow flies, friends and neighbors are finishing their fall outdoor chores, pulling out warmer clothes and finding the flannel bedding. Preparations are underway for our four major holidays: the Firearms Deer Hunting Opener, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s. You’re invited to share all of them with us.
Hunters are occupied with siting in their rifles, airing their blaze orange gear and checking the weather forecast. Nowadays, many women hunt, too, but traditional “hunting widows” begin shopping for home and the holidays.
The tradition continues with a Holiday Bazaar Nov. 4 and 5 at the Headwaters Animal Shelter and a Ladies Shopping Day Out Nov. 5 at Blueberry Pines. For a hands-on experience, Mark Bridge of The Cottage Baker will teach a lefse making class at Smokey Hills Wilderness Retreat Nov. 17 or take part in celebrating Native American Heritage Month with activities at the Park Rapids Area Library. The library and League of Women Voters Park Rapids will host a special program, “Teachings of the Seven Grandfathers,” at 1:30 p.m. Nov. 19 at the Northwoods Bank Community Room.
The Park Rapids Community Band will bring in the spirit of the season at a winter concert at 3 p.m. Nov. 20 at the Area High School Auditorium.
On Thanksgiving Day, burn off those calories before the feast at the 2nd Annual Turkey Trot and 5K Walk/Run sponsored by Heartland Homes. The walk/run starts at 9 a.m. with registration beforehand in the lobby of Essentia Health/CHI St. Joseph’s.
The tree lighting on Main Street the Friday after Thanksgiving offers a greeting card moment to share with friends and family. Festivities begin with a Yuletide Sampler at participating stores from 5 to 6 p.m., a Live Nativity and the annual CHI St. Joseph’s Hospice Care Light Up a Life Tree Lighting Ceremony. Join in singing Christmas carols, roasting marshmallows over fire pits, welcoming Santa and a celebration of life and memories. The ceremony starts at 6 p.m. Once lit, the giant tree stands as a symbol of small town cheer and good will, lighting the way to a New Year.
Remember to support our local merchants all season and take part in Small Business Saturday events, Nov. 26. Kids are invited to visit with Santa that night and Saturdays starting Nov. 26 at Bella Caffè and to free children’s movie matinees at 1 p.m. Saturdays at Park Theater.
Park Rapids merchants welcome early shoppers to savor the hometown-style atmosphere where personal service, free gift wrapping and friendly faces will help you fill your Christmas wish lists.
It’s the season to visit whether it’s enjoying the outdoors, relaxing or joining in some local traditions. The Chamber Website has all the information you need to put together a memorable stay or weekend visit. If you want help or have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.