By Stephen Smoot
The first thing one notices, after the filled to the brim parking that shows how beloved this event has become, is the sights of Christmas revelers from one to 92, the sounds of fun and fellowship, and the delicious smells of burning wood and incredible food.
Hundreds came last Saturday night to enjoy Christmas cheer in front of the Wardensville community building.
The Lions Club took the lead in establishing a community Christmas celebration for Wardensville four years ago. Tom Austin, who serves with the Lions Club, gestured to his wife Patsy, saying “it was her idea!”
Austin explained that the main goal of the celebration lay in using the Christmas spirit “to bring the community together.” He added that “it seems to get bigger and better every time we do it.” A number of businesses, churches, and other organizations set up tents to offer games, prizes, and food.
Don’t expect to see any cash changing hands, however, because, as Austin explained “everything here is donated by businesses.” His wife then said “they just come and give. There’s no charge for anything.”
“That makes it extra special,” Mr. Austin added.
Volunteers helped to round out the fun. Patsy Austin noted that “Michael and Ann Funkhouser make great elves!”
The Farms Work Wonders tent had stations for cookie decorating and hot chocolate. They shared space with WordPlay, which brought a huge selection of children’s books. Restaurants such as Kack-A-Pon and Marina’s Pizza offered some of their fan favorite foods as well.
Patti Yarborough, manager of the Wardensville branch of Pendleton Community Bank, manned their tent. She shared that “it’s important for community banks in general to support the community.
One of the efforts made by this branch has been to help incoming retirees find the best financial path. She added that she personally enjoys “helping folks achieve their financial dreams and goals.”
As the sun set and the temperatures dropped, the warmth of joy and love felt in the community kept all enjoying the evening.
