BY RACHEL DOVE
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
WARFIELD — Following the tradition of years gone by, the Warfield Park Community Center board and dedicated volunteers are making final preparations for the annual Christmas in the Park scheduled for this weekend.
Board chairperson Denise Chaffins has released a schedule of activities.
“This year’s event will be the best yet,” Chaffins said. “We encourage everyone to come out and participate in the festivities. We know you’ll be glad you did.”
Friday, beginning at 6 p.m., there will be a Christmas cookie decorating event in the Warfield Park Community Center. Children aged 12 and under are invited to attend the free activity. They will join Mrs. Claus in decorating sugar cookies, a cup of hot chocolate and listening to Christmas music. Those participating must be accompanied by an adult and are asked to contact Chaffins at 606-395-5212 to register and reserve their space.
Saturday morning, craft vendors may begin setting up at 9 a.m. inside the community center.
This will give the public a perfect opportunity to shop for a unique handcrafted gift or to purchase special Christmas décor.
One of the Christmas trees in the center has been purposely left blank, as Chaffins invites all children attending the daylong festivities to bring an ornament to help decorate it. She encourages children to wear their favorite Christmas attire and join in singing Christmas carols.
Hot dogs, hot chocolate and coffee will be available throughout the day.
The parade is at noon. The lineup is set for 11 a.m. at the Martin County Middle School. The parade will proceed through the City of Warfield, turning onto Route 292 and traveling through Dempsey Housing before ending at the park.
Parade coordinator Josh Hunt invites all first responders and emergency departments to participate in the parade. He also hopes to see sports teams, church groups, vintage car owners and county officials. Floats are always welcome.
Chaffins says she has a wonderful surprise planned to lead the parade, one she feels will be a hit with the public.
“This year, I wanted to do something extra special for children and adults who come out to watch the parade. If all goes as planned, I think we will succeed in bringing a smile to all who attend,” said Chaffins.
Following the parade, the man of the hour, Santa, will distribute new toys and treats at the community center.
This year Santa will be loaded thanks to a generous surprise donation Monday of over 200 new toys by former Martin County resident Lisa Cavaliere.
“I want to thank our donor for blessing us and our dedicated volunteers and board members that work together each year to ensure our Christmas event is better than the one before,” said Chaffins. “And as always, let us remember the true reason for the season.”
For more information, you may contact Chaffins at 606-298-5212.