With the early arrival of Thanksgiving in the 2018 calendar year, it means more time to soak up the holiday sights and sounds with family and friends. And of course, there’s the biggest attraction of all … Santa Claus, himself. The big guy is famous for using Christmas magic to be on-site all over the place, include parades, parties, churches, community events and retail outlets. Here’s a small sampling of some of the places you’re likely to find Santa in the weeks ahead.
Sanford’s Christmas Parade in downtown will be held Monday, December 3rd at 7pm. The parade is hosted by Central Carolina Jaycees. In addition to St. Nick, who always seems to make a colorful arrival, this year’s parade will include an appearance by the Express Employment Clydesdales. In fact, if your kids would love to see these beautiful horses and get pictures taken, there’s a pre-parade activity taking place at the Sanford Elks Lodge from 4:30 to 6:30pm.
Another annual holiday standby is the Depot Park Christmas Tree and Train Lighting festivities taking place Friday evening December 7th at 6pm in Downtown Sanford. Sponsored in part by our friends at Adcock & Associates Real Estate & Auction, this holiday tradition includes live Christmas music, sledding, children’s crafts and activities, and photos with Santa himself.
Caroline Sports in Kathryn’s Hallmark at the Riverbirch Corner Shopping Center sets aside room in their store so that Santa and the kids can spend a few minutes getting together. He even has “office hours” most weekday evenings from 6-8pm, and extended hours on Saturdays from 10am-8pm and Sundays from 1pm-6pm. For all of Santa’s appearances at Riverbirch Corner, visit the calendar at Kathyrn’s Hallmark & Fiona’s Facebook page.
If outdoors are more your interest, think about paying a visit to the Lights of Christmas at Broken Plow Farm on Avents Ferry Road on December weekends. You’ll enjoy a hayride around the farm and a look at plenty of Christmas decorations and displays, a special light show and a visit with Santa. Tickets are $9 for folks age 2 and older. For more information, drop by the Lights of Christmas Facebook page.
And of course, please plan to visit our Welcome to Sanford website and Facebook page, for the latest news on more of Santa’s appearances in the coming weeks!
