BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — The holiday season is upon us and the Christmas in the Mountains organizers have unveiled a schedule of live performances, attractions and events to bring the community together in celebration in Inez.
The festivities begin this Sunday, Dec. 1, with the Merry Little Christmas Party at the Collier Center from 6 to 8 p.m. This event will feature a delicious dinner, live music and dancing, all leading up to the highlight of the evening—the coronation of Ms. and Mr. Christmas in the Mountains 2024, Thelma Moore and Garmon David Preece. Tickets, priced at $15 for singles and $25 for couples, can be purchased at Paula’s Hair Image or through PayPal at citmfunds@gmail.com.
Unique carnival attractions this year will include a thrilling 175-foot zipline and rock wall combo, available exclusively on Saturday, Dec. 7, beside the business center. Guests can purchase all-day bracelets for $10 or individual rides for $5.
The ice skating rink will be available all week and offers a winter wonderland experience for just $5, including skate rentals.
Carnival rides like the towering 50-foot Ferris wheel, the Scat and three carousels, alongside a giant slide, add to the festive atmosphere. Tickets for the rides are available for $10 for an all-day bracelet or $4 per ride.
Free inflatables and train rides ensure a magical week.
On Friday, Dec. 6, special event magic continues with A Walk to Bethlehem, a live retelling of the Christmas story set along Main Street from 5 to 8 p.m. Visitors can immerse themselves in the moving portrayal of this timeless tale that starts at 126 Main Street.
For those seeking a more whimsical experience, horse-drawn carriage rides will be available from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the First State Bank parking lot. Couples can enjoy this romantic tradition for $25, with children under 5 years old riding free with their parents. Reservations are available through Kendra Fletcher at Madison Blue Boutique or via PayPal at citmfunds@gmail.com.
Vendors and attractions open at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 6. Here is the live performance schedule:
4–4:30 p.m. Christmas Music
4:30–5:30 p.m. Jewell Family
5:30–6 p.m. Christmas Music
5:30–8:30 p.m. DJFletch (on Main Street)
6–7 p.m. William Workman
7–8 p.m. Jack Ward
8–9 p.m. Christmas Music
5–8 p.m. A Walk to Bethlehem, downtown Inez. Experience a moving live retelling of the Christmas story
Saturday, Dec. 7, promises a full day of special events and attractions in addition to the carnival.
The Nutcracker Tour will run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Martin County Historical Society.
Belle’s Christmas Tea Party offers an elegant gathering at 11:30 a.m. at the Masterpiece Kitchen & Café. Tickets for the tea party are $25 and can be reserved by contacting chasitybilly762@gmail.com.
Classic car enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Cruise-In Classic Car Show, held from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Martin County Extension Office parking lot. Entry costs $10, and Travis Parsley can provide more information at 304-417-0553.
As the evening unfolds, the streets will come alive with the Keeping Christ in Christmas Parade, hosted by the Martin County Kiwanis Club at 5:30 p.m. The dazzling Snow Glo ATV Lighted Parade will immediately follow this parade. Participants will line up at the Martin County Swimming Pool at 5 p.m.
The day concludes with a serene candlelight ceremony at 9 p.m. at Golden Memorial Church, offering a peaceful moment of reflection.
Live performances on Saturday, Dec. 7 include:
11–noon Christmas Music
12–12:30 p.m. Inez Dance Academy, MCMS Dance
12:30–12:45 p.m. Inez Elementary Dance
1–1:45 p.m. Jackie’s Gymnastics
1:45–2:30 p.m. Showcase Belle’s Princess Attendees
2:30–2:45 p.m. Eden Elementary Dance
3–3:30 p.m. MCHS Dance Team and Train Ride
3:30–4 p.m. Dovie Harless
4–4:30 p.m. Ella Parsley
4:30–5 p.m. Erin Grace Rudd
5–5:30 p.m. Michelle Scaggs
5:30 p.m. Parades
6:30–7 p.m. Dr. Lafferty
7–7:30 p.m. Chelsea Jude
7:30–8 p.m. Bradley Jude
8–9 p.m. Jack Ward
9–10 p.m. Christmas Music
9 p.m. Candlelight Ceremony Golden Memorial Church