Northwood to kick off Christmas festivities

Published 8:19 pm Tuesday, November 27, 2018

NORTHWOOD — The city of Northwood is hoping to get everyone in the spirit of the season during its Christmas in Northwood event Saturday.

The activities start with a free showing of the movies “Frosty the Snowman” and “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” at 1:30 p.m. at Northwood Theatre. At 5:30 p.m., there will be a candy cane hunt in Central Park by Santa’s Village.

Participants are encouraged to visit Northwood Community Center at 5 p.m. for free hot dogs and chocolate before the parade begins at 6 p.m.

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According to Northwood Chamber of Commerce representative Teresa George-Zenz, the lighted parade will start at the Worth County Fairgrounds and will be led by special guests Santa and Mrs. Claus. The pair will lead the floats through downtown Northwood to Swensrud Park.

Parade-goers will have an opportunity to vote on their favorite entry in the event, and Northwood dollars will be awarded to the top three winners.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will then retreat to Santa’s Village, where young ones can come get their photo taken with Santa.

Those who choose to stay at the park will still have something to do. The Swensrud Park After Glow will immediately follow the parade. There will be a bonfire, music and lighted displays at the park for all to enjoy. Chili and bars will also be served in exchange for a donation, with proceeds being used to expand the lighted displays in next year’s event.

The activities will wrap up with a dance from 6 to 9 p.m. at the community center.   

Children who cannot make the event don’t need to fear. There will be more opportunities to see Santa at his village from 5 to 6 p.m. Dec. 6, Dec. 13 and Dec. 20; from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 8, Dec. 15 and Dec. 22; and from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Christmas Eve.