(Posted Nov. 30, 2022)
By Kristy Zurbrick, Madison Editor
Get ready to celebrate the holidays as the South Charleston Community Club presents its annual Christmas in South Charleston Dec. 7 from 4 to 8 p.m. on and around Chillicothe Street.
Karman Ogden, club president, said the event’s decorations, entertainment, and camaraderie evoke the warm feeling of a “Hallmark holiday Christmas.” She encourages anyone and everyone to take part and enjoy.
Santa will make his grand entrance during a parade that steps off at 5:30 p.m., traveling from Journey of Faith Fellowship, 163 N. Chillicothe St., to Sunrise Cooperative, 21 Woodard St. Anyone who would like to take part in the parade is asked to call South Charleston Police Chief Brian Redish at (937) 462-8822. Parade entrants are invited to enjoy a dinner beforehand at 4 p.m. at Journey of Faith. Santa will be available to visit with children from 6 to 8 p.m. at South Charleston town hall, 35 S. Chillicothe St. Parents are welcome to take photos.
Many of the downtown shops will be open, and visitors can find vendors set up inside First Presbyterian Church, 15 N. Chillicothe St. Vendor spaces are $25. To reserve a space, send an email via the “Christmas in South Charleston” Facebook page.
The popular Passport program is back. Children can pick up booklets at any participating business, collect stamps or stickers at as many businesses as they can, then turn in the booklet at the Presbyterian Church for a chance to win prizes. The drawing is set for 8 p.m. at the church.
Speaking of prizes, the club is keeping with its tradition of holding a raffle. The grand prize is cash proceeds from the 50/50 portion of the raffle. Last year, the winner took home $900. Additional tickets will be drawn for five gift baskets containing gift cards and donations from local merchants. Tickets are $1 each or $5 for six and can be purchased at Park National Bank, 102 S. Chillicothe St.; Village Chic, 17 S. Chillicothe St.; Shoemakers IGA, 111 S. Chillicothe St.; or by contacting any Community Club member.
Food is always part of the celebration. Five food trucks will be set up along Chillicothe Street, the Polar Bar will be open, and the Miami View School will host a cookie walk at Village Chic, 17 S. Chillicothe St.
Stay tuned for updates on the “Christmas in South Charleston” Facebook page. The Community Club welcomes new members, including volunteers to serve on the Christmas committee. For details, send an email via the Facebook page or contact Ogden at (614) 353-8525.
All proceeds from Christmas in South Charleston benefit the South Charleston Community Club which maintains Community Park. The group meets at 6 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month at Village Chic.