Thomson gears up for Christmas

The Thomson-McDuffie County Chamber of Commerce is busy making plans for Christmas in Thomson.

This year's holiday festivities will begin with the annual tree-lighting ceremony Tuesday, Dec. 3, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the newly landscaped Depot Park in front of Thomson's historic depot. Santa Claus will make a special trip to light the tree and talk to the children. A child will be picked to help Santa light the tree, and Santa's "elves" will be on hand to give out sweets to the little ones. Local entertainment will include the Sparklers, Senior Center line dancers and a the Springfield Baptist Church choir. Candlelight and Christmas carols will add to the celebration.

Thomson-McDuffie County's Candlelight Tour of Homes will be Saturday, Dec. 7. Six homes will be decked out for the tour. Free shuttle service will be available from the depot. Tickets cost $12 in advance and $15 the day of the tour. Tickets are available at the chamber office inside the depot.

The annual Christmas Parade will be Sunday, Dec. 8, in downtown Thomson. The theme for this year is Christmas in America. The grand marshals for this year will be Fort Gordon's commander,Brig. Gen. Janet Hicks, and World War II veteran Ben Howell Sr. The Fort Gordon Band and the Thomson High School Band will march and play Christmas tunes.

Local organizations will fill the parade route with their floats. The finale will be Santa Claus, who will be trading his sleigh for a horse and buggy.

If your organization is interested in participating, pick up an application at the chamber office. Entry forms and a $10 entry fee must be in by Nov. 27. After Nov. 27, the entry fee will be $25. For more information on any of these events, contact the chamber at (706) 597-1000.