Our View: Get in the holiday spirit at home

Published 2:43 pm Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Now that everyone has changed out of their Thanksgiving pants — you know the ones with the elastic waist to make room for that second piece of pie — and worn out their shopping pants, it is time to get in the Christmas spirit.

It is the time of year when we all tend to get a little nostalgic, reflecting on all our favorite childhood Christmas memories, and eager to share in the joy of the season with loved ones.

This year, we encourage you to look no further than your own community to treat yourself to all the best of the holiday’s traditions.

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This weekend there are plenty of local attractions and events to help you and yours usher in the Christmas season.

If you haven’t already put up your tree, consider keeping that old artificial one packed away and venture to buy a locally-grown tree at Kovalic’s Christmas Trees. The family-owned farm has been raising beautiful trees for 25 years, and offers the only cut-and-choose operation in town. Spend some time with your family on their farm on Ecton Road picking the perfect pine or full fir to complete your holiday decor.

Usher in the holiday with the whole town Saturday night when Santa Claus makes his official arrival in Winchester with the annual downtown Christmas parade. This year the parade is all about “The HeART of Christmas,” and celebrates the makers in our community. About 40 floats, which are bound to be original and beautiful, are expected to make their way up Main Street.

For some holiday entertainment, two local groups have you covered.

Dancer’s Pointe, a locally-owned studio, will put on two performances of the classic “The Nutcracker.” You can see them in action at 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at George Rogers Clark High School.

Once you’ve decided which day to watch some ballet, consider taking in the Winchester Chorale Christmas concert on the other day of the weekend. They will perform at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday at First Church of God on Colby Road.

If you’re ready to get in the holiday spirit, your neighbors are too.

Take advantage of all Clark County has to offer for the holidays and consider starting a new tradition at home this holiday season.