By Heather Wood

As someone who enjoys this time of year, there is nothing quite like all the added sparkle for the holidays throughout Kernersville. Some people dread the holidays, but I love them! To me, I enjoy seeing all the buildings and store fronts all decked out in colorful lights and ornamentation. I love seeing Christmas trees pop up around office lobbies and outdoor spaces. In the past few years, Kernersville has become increasingly festive as our small town continues to grow, and a sense of pride returns for the holidays.

What better way to get into the holiday spirit by strolling through the Downtown Kernersville Christmas Around the World event! Shop local on Sat urday, December 5 from 3:00-7:00p.m, as downtown merchants will welcome various customers and celebrations from over 27 countries around the world by opening their hearts and shops to our community. Afterwards, attend the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting in Harmon Park, which will mark the official start to the holiday season. Festivities will include singing carols with the local East Forsyth Madrigals and Caprice choruses, sipping hot cocoa by the fire provided by Pierce Jefferson Funeral Service, and a visit from Santa and friends. The tree lighting will take place at 7:00p.m., but arrive early to join in on the holiday fun!

Charles Crews’ three-day holiday basketball clinics are a great way for your child to learn the game of basketball in a friendly, constructive atmosphere for K-8th graders. Clinics will provide boys and girls a chance to take their game to the next level by improving their fundamental skills. Every age group and all skill levels will have favorable gym time, station work, and team play. Younger players (K-2nd grade) will be shooting on lower, age appropriate goals. Players will learn passing, ball handling, rebounding, court spacing, and team offensive and defensive skills. Players will have FUN and gain self-confidence, allowing them to create their own winning formulas, on and off the court. The holiday clinic will be offered Monday, December 21 – Wednesday, December 23 from 9:00a.m. – 12:00p.m. at the Kernersville Community Recreation Center (125 E. Bodenhamer Street). The cost for the clinic is $55 per child through December 18, with a $10 sibling discount and team discounts available.

Looking for a creative, homemade gift for the relatives? Young Rembrandts is offering a two hour Christmas drawing workshop for your elementary-aged child (ages 5-12). Before heading out to shop, drop the kids off to make a fun, creative and one-of-a-kind present! For busy parents during the holiday rush, two sessions will be offered on Saturday, December 15 and December 19 from 10:00a.m. – 12:00p.m. at the Kernersville Community Recreation Center (125 E. Bodenhamer Street). The fee is $25 per workshop and includes all materials.

Kernersville Parks and Recreation will distribute the 2016 Winter Leisure Guide later this month! Look for all your favorite programs and events to kick-off the New Year! Getting fit will be on everyone’s mind, so stop in for a quick class and you will be hooked all year long!

We invite you to step through the looking glass for a night of wonder at this year’s Annual Father Daughter Dance. The theme will be Alice’s Evening in Wonderland and it will be held on Saturday, February 6 from 6:00-8:00p.m. Dads (or any other special figure in your princess’ life), be sure to invite your princess to a mystical night of music, food, and a special gift for every girl. Dress up or come casual. Picture memories will be available to order. Tickets can be purchased online via www.toknc.com/pr beginning January 4 at 9:00a.m. Tickets are limited and will sell out fast! For more information please call 336-996-3062. Do not be late for this very important date!
The Town of Kernersville’s offices will be closed Thursday, December 24 and Friday, December 25 in observance of the Christmas holiday.

We would like to wish everyone a safe and Happy Holiday season, and a very Happy New Year!