Christmas cheer to warm up Afton

AFTON - With December in swing, the Afton Community Club is ready to kick in the holiday season with two events Saturday, December 7. With holiday lights already lighting up the town square with merry colors, the Christmas season is ready to begin.

Temperatures for the weekend are sunnier and higher than average for winter weather, although the wind and potential wind chill could spoil. A high of 51 degrees and a low of 38 will give a mild feel to the day.

Starting in the morning at 9 a.m., the Afton Extravaganza will take place at East Union, where the concourse will be converted into a 50-vendor marketplace. The activities entrance will be open, leading to the concourse space. East Union’s music room will be available for a few children’s activities.

President of the Community Club Devon Springer said she’s happy to continue a 25-year tradition with the Extravaganza. Springer credits another member of the Community Club, Amber Fluckey, with taking charge of a lot of the organizing for the event this year.

Meals will be served throughout the day, starting with breakfast provided by the East Union junior class parents at 9 a.m. and lunch by East Union Dollars for Scholars starting at 11 a.m.

From 10 a.m. to noon, children can enjoy a few activities contributed by local community groups. Joyful Sparks will provide a visit from Santa, with the East Union PTO will offer facepainting. Both will take place in the music room.

With such a wide variety available with 50 vendors, Springer said she’s impressed with the “good group of vendors.”

Between events, the Community Club is looking to encourage interest in local Afton businesses by offering a punch card for 10 different businesses. After visiting all 10 businesses and completing the punch card, a reward of a gift basket will be delivered at a later date.

Starting at 5:30 p.m., Holiday in the Park will begin. To keep warm in the winter weather, many of the activities will take place in the Afton Community Center. A freewill donation chili dinner will help warm up those looking to avoid the chilly winds.

Kids can head to the Community Center to write a letter to Santa, who will be available in the park for photos later that night. Besides the letters, ornament and cookie decorating kits will be available.

Springer said she still has several letters from years past, and says they hold a sentimental value. “I can’t just throw them out.” she said.

With these events kicking off winter, the service of providing these activities and events is important to the Community Club. “We want to keep that sense of creativity in these traditions, making these moments magical and freeing for the kids,” said Springer.