Gordonsville, Carthage Christmas parades set for weekend

By Eddie West Staff Writer

For those looking to celebrate the holiday season there are plenty of local events taking place before Christmas.

•The much anticipated Gordonsville and Carthage Christmas parades will be taking place this weekend. The Gordonsville Christmas parade is set for 5 p.m., Saturday, December 6. The parade travels along Main Street. Meanwhile the Hometown Carthage Christmas parade is set for 4:30 p.m., Sunday, December 7. In addition to the parade the event will include a visit with Santa Claus at the Smith County Historical Courthouse and other festivities around the courthouse.

•The traditional “Life of Christ” drive-through  will be held in the Brush Creek community. The annual event is held by the Brush Creek Baptist Church. The event will take place from 6-8 p.m. on December 6 and December 7. The event is held at the church which is located at 26 School House Circle. While there is no admission, the church would be grateful for a donation which would benefit its Hats of Love Ministry. For more information contact 615-683-8249. In the event of inclement weather individuals can contact this number for an update.

•For those looking to view lights displays the Lights of Long Branch Drive Through Christmas Display is taking place nightly through December 23. The drive through is open Monday through Friday from 5-9 p.m. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday the drive through is open 5-10 p.m. Admission is $15 per vehicle. A special walk through night with a live nativity scene and meet and greet with Santa Claus will be held on December 14. Admission is $5 per adult. Children 10 and under will be admitted free. The event benefits the Gordonsville Football Booster Club. The light display is held at the Long Branch campground located below Center Hill Dam and east of the Lancaster community.

•Santa Claus will be making a visit to the Carthage Junction Depot from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday December 13. Individuals can have their picture made with Santa. The event will also feature a snow globe competition with various snow globes on display.

•The Grinch will be making a special appearance in Gordonsville for the Christmas season. Everyone, especially children, who would like to meet the Grinch in person will have the opportunity to do so. The Gordonsville Police Department will be hosting a meet and greet with Grinch from 5-7 p.m., December 19, at the Gordonsville Civic Center. Children of all ages can meet the Grinch as well as the city’s law enforcement officers.

•The Paws-itively Magical Winter Ball benefiting Smith County Humane is set to be held Saturday, December 13. The event will take place from 5 p.m. until 12 a.m. Tickets are $75 each. An unlimited drink wristband is $30. The event is at the national guard armory in Gordonsville located at 101 Transport Drive.

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