Events, fundraising and more make the season special
The weather may be cold, but hearts in Gilmer are warm.
During the Christmas season, many local institutions take time to raise charity funds, entertain county residents and otherwise celebrate the Christmas season.
Here are some Christmas events you can attend in the upcoming season.
Two million dazzling lights shine Christmas joy to all who see them. The Holiday Lights of Ellijay display is one of the highlights of the season.
With more than 100 displays, a light maze, Christmas trees and more, you can be swept away by the lights.
Santa Claus, music, concessions and local vendors help make the event complete.
Located at the Lions Club Fairgrounds at 1729 South Main Street, this event opens every night starting at 6 p.m.
The event started Monday, Nov. 24, and ends Tuesday, Dec. 30.
Admission costs $10 for adults and is free for children 12 years old and under. People can buy season tickets for $25. The proceeds of the event will fund several local charities.
The American Legion Auxiliary Post 82 combines Christmas charity and patriotism in its Old Fashioned Themed Children’s Christmas Party Saturday, Dec. 14.
This year, the event offers kids the chance to be “gnome” for Christmas with a gnome-themed party.
The free event gives kids birth to 12 years old the chance to celebrate Christmas together with a hot cocoa station, cookie decoration, crafts, letters to Santa and more.
There will also be a raffle drawing for a bike and toys will be distributed. To participate, parents must fill out a form at American Legion Post 82 during normal business hours. The post is located on 297 Legion Road, Ellijay. Filling out an application helps the American Legion ensure the event has the right goodies for your child.
The event has two parts. For kids birth to 6 years old, the event goes from noon to 2 p.m., and for kids 7 to 12 years old, the event goes from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
If you want to share with others during Christmas, Marine Corps Toys for Tots provides charity with a mission.
The organization gives toys to local kids in need.
Something like a Lego set or buildable bracelet kit might not cost much, but it can provide years of entertainment and happiness.
The efforts of Toys for Tots volunteers help kids know they are special on Christmas.
Toys for Tots gives out toys for kids from birth to 18 until Friday, Dec. 19.
Donations to this cause can be dropped off at Truist Bank Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday. The bank is at 894 Maddox Drive, and Toys for Tots is located on the second floor.
Whatever you’re looking for, Gilmer County has something to make Christmas special.