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Banner Elk’s Christmas in the Park Celebration a Full Day of Fun with Santa, a Parade and More for the Family

by Madison V. Fisler

Dec. 2, 2013. On Saturday, Dec. 7, the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce, Banner Elk Tourism Development Association and the Town of Banner Elk will host the annual “Christmas in the Park” celebration. 

The all-day event will feature plenty of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy from morning to night. 

This event truly has something for everyone, from a parade, to a live nativity scene and event a chance to meet Santa Claus, the annual Christmas in the Park celebration is a great day of fun for all. 

The schedule of events is as follows:

  • Breakfast with Santa and the Sugar Bears at Dunn’s Deli 8:30-10 a.m.
  • Screening of “The Polar Express” at Evans Auditorium at Lees-McRae College at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
  • Pet photos with Santa at My Best Friend’s Barkery (call for appointment)
  • Cookie Decorating with the Sugar Mountain Bears at Banner Elk Cafe 2:30-3:30 p.m.
  • Beer tasting at Flat Top Brewing Company 1 p.m. until the beer runs out
  • Reading of The Night Before Christmas at The Little Main Street Inn 3:30-4:30 p.m. (make sure to wear your pajamas!)
  • The U.S. Army Special Forces Ice Carving Team 3-8 p.m. in Tate-Evans Park
  • Parade of Lights from Lees-McRae College to Tate-Evans Park at 5:30 p.m.
  • Luminary Lighted Train Rides in Tate-Evans Park following the parade
  • Meet Santa after the parade in Tate-Evans Park
  • Tree Lighting Ceremoy after the parade in Tate-Evans Park
  • Live Nativity Scene in Tate-Evans Park, animals courtesy of Apple Hill Farm

The highlight of the Christmas in the Park Celebration is the Parade of Lights in downtown Banner Elk. Everyone is invited to join in the parade with decorated cars and floats, no registration necessary. Simply line up between 4:30 and 5 p.m. and follow the parade to Tate-Evans Park for the annual tree lighting ceremony and to meet Santa Claus, according to the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce.

Don’t forget to come meet Santa’s elves at the Bayou from 2-5 p.m with face painting, balloon animals and seasonal songs. Kids can write letters to Santa Claus at the Letter Writing Station as well. 

So if you’re looking for a great way to get into the holiday spirit, look no further than the Banner Elk Christmas in the Park.