NOVEMBER 26, 2009 ISSUE
Christmas in Blowing Rock
Parade, Gallery Stroll and Other Festivities Friday and Saturday
The village of Blowing Rock has traditionally claimed Thanksgiving weekend as its official kickoff to the holiday season, with its annual Christmas in the Park celebration and Christmas Parade always set for the Friday and Saturday following the November holiday.
“It’s something that we can offer the community that’s free and fun for the family,” said Jennifer Brown, director of Blowing Rock Parks and Recreation.
Many events are taking place in Blowing Rock to usher in the yuletide season this weekend. This Friday, November 27, head to Memorial Park for Christmas in the Park, with free activities for the entire family. Cross the street and head to Sunset Drive for a special Holiday Stroll of art galleries and downtown businesses.
Warm up with a delicious bowl of soup around lunchtime Saturday, November 28, at the Blowing Rock Community Library before lining the sides of Main Street for the annual Christmas Parade. End your day with A Community Christmas Tree concert presented by Mountain Home Music at the Blowing Rock School Auditorium.
Christmas in the Park and Lighting of the Town—Friday
Blowing Rock’s annual Christmas in the Park celebration, presented by the Parks and Recreation Department, will take place from 2:00 to 9:00 p.m. this Friday, November 27, at Memorial Park.
An airwalk will be available for the kids from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m., and Santa will be at the Memorial Park gazebo from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Hayrides through Blowing Rock will operate from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m. Enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and cider from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.
“Last year, we gave away 2,300 cups of hot chocolate and cider,” Brown said.
Caroling in the park, led by local group The Vagabonds, will take place from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. Mayor J.B. Lawrence will be on hand for the ceremonial Lighting of the Town at 5:30 p.m. Finally, enjoy bluegrass holiday music with Diana and Sarvis Ridge at the park from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
For more information, call 828-295-5222.
Holiday Stroll on Sunset Drive—Friday
The public is invited to an illuminated Holiday Stroll on Sunset Drive this Friday, November 27, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The galleries, restaurants and merchants on Sunset Drive welcome visitors to an evening of food, drinks and holiday cheer.
Christmas lights and luminaries will guide your way along this open house featuring a wine tasting, art exhibitions, hot cider and large and small treasures in the participating businesses.
Morning Star Gallery will offer festive food and drinks while you browse hand-blown ornaments and regional fine arts and crafts. Wes Waugh’s giclees and Cher Cosper’s Santa Claus prints can be ordered for holiday shipping. Other potential gifts include Rod Shaw’s terracotta sculptures or paintings by Trena McNabb or Brad Stroman.
Trillium Exquisite Baubles will launch its holiday sales during the stroll and share wine with visitors. Art and Artifacts has paintings by Judi Russell and works by 27 other regional artists and will also offer wine.
Blowing Rock Grille, The Best Cellar, Mellow Mushroom Pizza and Crippen’s Restaurant will be open at 5:00 p.m., offering drinks, little dishes and dinners throughout the evening. Larry Imeson of Bert’s Bar plans special holiday drinks. Christopher’s Wine and Cheese will host a wine tasting and feature the Wine to Water program.
Also, shop for holiday gifts at DeWoolfson Down, Jake’s on the Rock and Gregory Alan’s.
For more information, call 828-295-6991.
Soupfest—Saturday
The 2nd annual Soupfest to benefit the Blowing Rock Community Library will take place at the library clubroom on Main Street from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. this Saturday, November 28. Soup will be available for eating in or take-out.
Kathleen Hasty will play popular Christmas carols on the piano. All proceeds will be used for library operations during the next year. For more information, call 828-295-7000.
Blowing Rock Christmas Parade—Saturday
Blowing Rock’s small town Christmas Parade attracts visitors in the hundreds to line the sides of Main Street for the charming annual exhibition. The parade will begin at 2:00 p.m. this Saturday, November 28.
Brown said this year’s parade will feature about 50 units, including the Ashe County and Watauga high school marching bands, a Charlie Brown Christmas float, the Oasis Shriners clown unit, cloggers, various elected officials and Santa in a fire truck.
For more information, call 828-295-5222.
A Community Christmas Tree—Saturday
Mountain Home Music presents A Community Christmas Tree this Saturday, November 28, at 8:00 p.m. at the Blowing Rock School Auditorium. Performing in concert will be Joe Shannon, Steve Lewis, Scott Freeman, the Blue Ridge Vocal Ensemble and Steve and Ruth Smith.
Tickets are $12.50 in advance, $15 at the door and $10 for students at the door. For more information, call 828-964-3392 or click to www.mountainhomemusic.com.
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