Town Hosts ChristmasFest December 1

The 100 block of Market Street will be transformed into a bustling holiday village on Saturday, December 1 as the Town of Cheraw hosts its inaugural Cheraw ChristmasFest.

This family-friendly event has been planned with the community's children and their families as the focus of this fun-filled day, complete with an old-fashioned carousel, horse-drawn wagon rides and a dazzling fireworks display at dusk. During this event, the 100 block of Market Street (from Front Street to Second Street) will be closed to all vehicular traffic. Parking will be available along Second Street and in the two parking lots behind businesses in the 100 block of Market.

The holiday tradition, "Whoville Meets Cheraw-ville", will kick off the festivities beginning at 11:00 am. At noon, Santa will arrive at Centennial Park and many activities are planned throughout the afternoon and early evening including entertainment, children's rides, a merchants open house, and a holiday play at the Theatre on the Green. A detailed schedule of events is listed below.

"We want to promote Cheraw as a great place for an old-fashioned Christmas and the ideal place to shop, eat, and enjoy the holiday season," said Cheraw mayor Andy Ingram. "If you're looking for a day of Christmas fun, then please join us December first."

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

"Whoville Meets Cheraw-ville": 11:00 am-12:00 noon; Theatre on the Green. This Cheraw holiday tradition gives kids of all ages a chance to dress like their favorite "Whoville" citizen, see the classic cartoon "How The Grinch Stole Christmas" plus enjoy an after movie snack at The River's Edge. Admission: $5 (includes cookie & cocoa).

Reindeer Games Wristband: 12:00 noon-5:30 pm; 100 block of Market Street. An afternoon of fun awaits! The Reindeer Games Wristband, available for $5, allows repeat admittance to the Reindeer Games (Rudolph's Turbo Tubs, Dasher's Dashaway Slide, Blitzen's Bounce House), The Christmas Carousel and The Polar Express.

The Christmas Carousel: 12:00 noon-5:30 pm; 100 block of Market Street. One of those magical places that kids, from one to 92, can enjoy a ride from the past. Admission: Reindeer Games wristband.

The Polar Express: 12:00 noon-5:30 pm; 100 block of Market Street. All aboard for the North Pole! The Polar Express leaves from the Market Street Depot. Admission: Reindeer Games wristband.

Santa Claus is Coming To Town: 12:00 noon-5:30 pm; Centennial Park Gazebo. Children are invited to share their wish list with Santa in his sleigh. Photo: $2

Holiday Bake Shoppe: 12:00 noon-5:30 pm; Centennial Park. Spread a little icing and decorate a cookie for a lip-smacking good time. $1 each; adult must accompany child. Other tasty holiday treats and beverages available for purchase.

Village Square Entertainment: 12:00 noon-5:30 pm; 100 block of Market Street
A variety of Christmas entertainment celebrates the season. Scheduled performers include the Cheraw High School Concert Band, Kyle Henderson on the bagpipes, the KFA Dancers, DJ Star Child, and Patty Blackmon & the Carolina Shaggers.

ChristmasFest Roving Characters: 12:00 noon-5:00 pm; 100 block of Market Street. The perfect photo opportunity with Rudolph, Frosty, Holly Bear, and The Grinch.

Face Painting: 12:00 noon-5:00 pm; 100 block of Market Street. A swirling snowflake, a silly elf, maybe even the Christmas star. Add some sparkle to the season with a professional design that shows your holiday spirit. Cost: $3-$5.

Village Merchants Open House: 12:00 noon-5:00 pm; Market and Second Streets. Village merchants have some great gift ideas for the Christmas season. Only 23 more shopping days left!

Oh! Christmas Trees: 12:00 noon-until; Centennial Park. Beautifully themed live trees decorated by local organizations, schools and businesses will be on display through December.

Village Eatery: 12:00 noon-5:00 pm; Market Street at Second Street. Hot dogs, hamburgers, fries & drinks will be offered by The Pathfinders.

Horse Drawn Wagon Rides: 12:00 noon-9:00 pm; Second Street. Nothing will get you in the holiday spirit like enjoying a horse drawn wagon tour through historic Cheraw. Special
ChristmasFest rate: $3 until 6:00 pm; $5 after 6:00 pm.

ChristmasFest Grand Finale: 5:15 pm; Downtown. Don't miss this lively finale featuring a dazzling Christmas fireworks display over the historic village of Cheraw. This will be a Christmas to remember!

"Sorry, Wrong Chimney" by Jack Sharkey and Leo W. Sears: 7:30 pm; Theatre on the Green. Presented by OnStage, this holiday comedy involves a department store Santa, a suspicious wife, and a host of other characters that add up to a rollicking tale. Tickets ($8 adults; $5 children 12 & under) available at the Cheraw Community Center.