Holly Jolly Special Events

As the holidays draw near, you can discover plenty of local celebrations, activities, and festive fun to welcome in the season.

Holiday Bingo & Festive Fun – December 1

Show your holiday spirit and win prizes for bingo, as well as other festive contests. Free and open to all ages. From 2-4 p.m. at Grove Street Community Center, 36 Grove St.

Lake Julian Festival of Lights – December 2-23

A magical display with animated and stationary lights. This amazing three-week celebration of the Christmas spirit can’t be missed. Open from 6-8 p.m.

• Walk through the display on December 2 & 3. Pets and cars are not permitted during the walk through. Walk-through admission is $5 per person; children 16 and under free of charge.
• Drive through December 4-23. The loop trail takes about 10 minutes to drive. Admission: $10 passenger vehicle; $25 large vans; $50 motor coaches/buses.

Tickets may be purchased in advance at buncomberecreation.simpletix.com. Lake Julian Park is located at 37 Lake Julian Road, Arden, NC 28704.

Holiday Lights & Cozy Movie Night – December 8

Take a stroll under festive lights and enjoy a free movie on the big screen with light refreshments. Open to all ages. From 6-8 p.m. at Burton Street Community Center, 134 Burton St.

Holiday Trivia for Young Adults – December 8

Do you know your holiday facts? Bring a team of friends or come solo for a free, friendly competition! Open to ages 18-39. From 6-8 p.m. at Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St.

Breakfast with Santa – December 9

A holiday tradition for local families, Santa hosts a special breakfast with games, crafts, and a visit from the jolly man himself. Cost: $10. For ages 2-9 with adult. From 9-10:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. until 12 noon at Stephens-Lee Community Center, 30 George Washington Carver Ave. Advance registration required; go to www.avlrec.com.

Holiday Cookie Contest – December 13

Utilize your baking skills to create the best holiday cookie in a friendly competition with prizes for the top three contestants. Complimentary hot chocolate and apple cider for spectators, too. Free and open to all ages. From 1-2:45 p.m. at Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center, 285 Livingston St.

Ugly Sweater Party for Older Adults – December 16

Calling all adults ages 50 or better: Eat, drink, and be merry in the tackiest holiday sweater you can find. To participate in the gift exchange (not required), bring a new item wrapped or in a gift bag. Free. From 3-8 p.m. at Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd.

Meet and Greet with Santa – December 17

Write Santa a letter, stamp it with real wax, and hand deliver it to Santa. Free. From 1-3 p.m. at Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center, 121 Shiloh Rd.

For more details on any of these events, please visit www.avlrec.com.