Old Man Winter’s recent blast of snow in the county signals that Christmas is right around the bend.
To get into the holiday spirit, Roan Mountain State Park is offering the first ever Christmas in the Park on Saturday, Dec. 17, from 4 to 8 p.m. inside the state park.
“This is the first year we’ve offered this,” Park Manager J.R. Tinch said about the event. “We’re anxious to see how everything goes. It’ll be a fun time and we’re excited about providing this event to the public.”
Individuals are encouraged to display their own “Christmas Spirit” by booking a campsite and decorating it with festive lights and other items for community members to view throughout the evening.
Tinch added the attendees that book a site don’t have to stay for the entire night, adding the event is geared toward giving the park a festive feel to prepare for the holidays.
“We wanted to offer this as another way for people to celebrate Christmas and to see the park,” he said.
A Christmas event wouldn’t be the same without Jolly Saint Nick himself. Along with Santa Claus, the event will feature cookies, caroling and other activities for attendees to take full advantage of. The night will also be a bit chilly, according to weather forecasts, so attendees are encouraged to dress accordingly.
Sites are still available, the park manager said, while businesses and other organizations are invited to be part of the festivities. The event is being spearheaded by the staff of Roan Mountain State Park.
For more information on how to get involved, visit the park’s website at tnstateparks.com/parks/about/roan-mountain, the Roan Mountain State Park Facebook page or call (423) 772-0190.