Old Fashioned Christmas

Looking for a unique fun-filled Christmas family activity?  Chautauqua’s Old Fashioned Christmas is the answer.  After Thanksgiving’s turkey stupor, on Saturday November 25, come to Oakwood Resort in Syracuse.  Yes, Santa will be there, and his reindeer (for petting). And the Live Nativity and horse-drawn wagon rides …and, of course, the Big Tree Lighting.  The reading of the Christmas story from the Bible at the historic Oakwood Chapel is back by popular demand.  The Christmas photobooth is perfect for the annual family Christmas picture; using your phone’s camera we will take your family photo.  Watch out for characters who are roaming around:  Frosty, the Grinch, Rudolph, Buddy-the-Elf, Toy Soldier, and Gingerbread Man…all available for fun and photos with kids. The event will be held outdoors on the grounds of Oakwood Resort, with activities starting with music near the Oakwood Inn starting at 5:30 which is earlier than previous years.  Music groups take the stage at 5:30 and carols will be sung around the 60 foot Christmas tree which will be lit at 6:15.  Then you and your family may stroll up the lighted paths to see Santa and Mrs. Claus. Take pictures with roaming characters! Listen to an elf read the Night Before Christmas.  Two barbershop quartets are strolling around singing carols, along with two other music groups.  Get warmed up with some hot chocolate and munch on a cookie.  Don’t forget to pick up some Deer food to take home for Santa’s reindeer. Stroll up to the historic Oakwood chapel to hear the Christmas story read from the Bible.  On your way to the Chapel, stop to see the live nativity.  And you’ll want to relax and enjoy a horse drawn wagon ride around the park.  These are just some of the many fun activities at the Old Fashioned Christmas celebration.  As we celebrate Christmas, we often think of those in need; a collection bin for the Syracuse Food Pantry is available for your canned or non-perishable goods.

Hope for a bit of snow, but if severe weather occurs, check the Chautauqua-Wawasee website www.chqw.org or Facebook site www.facebook.com/ChautauquaWawasee for information and updates.  FREE TO ATTEND.