The town of Northwood was overflowing with Christmas spirit during the first weekend of December. Old Fashioned Christmas Saturday started up at the Community Center, where the Main Street Association hosted Santa and his elves. Santa was eager to hear about their wish lists. The children also enjoyed crafts and cookies.
N.E.L.C. was a whirlwind of wrapping paper, scotch tape, and scissors. The hallway was filled with anxious young shoppers patiently waiting to select gifts for their loved ones. Christmas trees are now full of presents that were chosen with love.
Back at the Community Center, a BBQ and hot dog lunch was served as anxious Bingo players began to gather. The Northwood Men's Club spent $3000 on toys and other prizes. They hosted a wonderful event that made many dreams come true.
The community welcomed back the "Christmas Lights Parade". There were burn barrels set around to keep those bodies warm in the single-digit weather, and many were thankful that the North Dakota wind decided to stay at bay.
As people gathered around the Christmas tree in Centennial Park, Pastor Paul Redding gave a heartfelt message, and the Sunday school kids sang carols. The countdown was said as the tree lit up so beautifully, with the crowd giving a cheer.
The evening ended with hot chocolate and goodies at the Depot. The Christmas joy filled the air as Bob Draxton played violin with his granddaughter singing. Smiles and greetings were plentiful as people learned a little about our Christmas history.
On Sunday, the Main Street Association hosted a vendor show at the Community Center. The tables were full of wonderful items. A warm bowl of soup, sandwiches, and bars were the perfect lunch on a very cold day.
The evening gave way to the Candy Cane Lane tour featuring Shaun Johnson at Northwood's Performing Arts Center. The jazzy pop music was the frosting on this holiday weekend.
It was an amazing weekend, and it truly warms hearts to see the community come together to spread so much Christmas joy. For all those you may have seen working these events, remember the countless volunteers behind the scenes, from setting up to donations.
The Old- Fashioned Christmas gathered the community together to behold the value we have in each other.
