Thanksgiving is officially behind us, the snow is falling, festive lights are popping up throughout the area and the holiday shopping season is well underway.
While the challenges the world is facing have obviously not melted away (and some still prefer to complain more than celebrate), it’s beginning to feel and look like Christmas, and things feel a little brighter.
As we’ve been out and about shopping and going to events, we’ve found that the decor is adorable and beautiful, the faces around town are friendly, and the community’s talent continues to impress us.
And it’s only just beginning.
Numerous events are on the calendar over the next several weeks, from concerts and plays to chances to visit Santa and church services, with the events aiming to celebrate the season and our wonderful community, and to be there for our friends and neighbors who need a little extra help right now.
We encourage everyone to take part if possible and add to the spirit of the season. We’re pretty sure there will be something for everyone, whether that’s cozy indoor events with hot cocoa or heading out for a stroll at the annual Old-Fashioned Christmas event on Dec. 20.
Even a trip to the post office counts as a social gathering these days, with the wait in line serving as an opportunity to catch up with and meet others in our community.
Youngsters can even get in on the festive fun by sharing their letters to Santa with us here at The SUN. Once again this year, we’ve partnered with Santa and his elves to host a Christmas mailbox at our office at 457 Lewis St., and Santa is again allowing us to share some of those Christmas wishes in The SUN to share the joy of our community’s kids. For those who are more digitally inclined, parents can email letters to editor@pagosasun.com. Letters will appear in the Dec. 25 issue of The PREVIEW.
And while we encourage shopping locally when possible year-round, now is the perfect time to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy a festive shopping trip around town to help check off all the boxes on your Christmas shopping list or for any other gifts or items you need (and if you’re like us, you may or may not have go home with new things for yourself while shopping for others).
Numerous local retailers are running deals, and while you get more bang for your buck shopping during the sales, you’re helping our fellow community members run successful businesses and have happy holidays, as well.
We encourage and challenge everyone to help make this a festive season for everyone and a season full of cheer, support and fun.
Randi Pierce
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