TOYS FOR TOTS
WHERE: Thomson Chrysler Dodge Jeep, 2158 Washington Road, Thomson
WHEN: Through Dec. 14
INFO: This is a U.S. Marine Corps Reserve "Toys-For-Tots" drop-off location. Please bring new and unwrapped toys along with cash contributions for underprivileged children in our area. The dealership is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Call (706) 597-0062 for directions. The dealership staff will also be donating to the collection drive.
FESTIVAL OFF MAIN
WHERE: Downtown Thomson
WHEN: Today through Sunday
INFO: Today: 6 p.m., Christmas tree lighting, children's choir singing, Santa's arrival; hamburgers, hot dogs and chili will be sold by Thomson Fire Department.
Friday: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Depot -- Polar Express, refreshments and activities for children ages 5-10. Wear PJs and bring sleeping bag or pillow and blanket. Limited number tickets sold at the Chamber of Commerce for $5 per child.
Saturday: Knox Shopping Center -- 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. arts and crafts festival, 5-K Depot Dash, entertainment, crafts, food, inflatables for children to play on -- no charge.
Sunday: Downtown Thomson -- 3 p.m. "Winter Wonderland" Christmas parade. Line up at Thomson Middle School, Main Street and disband at Thomson Elementary and/or IGA parking lot. Contact Johnette Bell at The Brier Patch, (706) 595-3087 for vendor and crafter information. There are still spots available. Visit www.festivaloffmain.com or call (706) 597-1000.
ANNUAL DEARING TREE LIGHTING
WHERE: Old Dearing School/Gym
WHEN: Friday, 6 p.m.
INFO: This is a free event. Bring your cameras for a picture with Santa.
A FESTIVAL OF NINE LESSONS AND CAROLS
WHERE: Sacred Heart Cultural Center
WHEN: Tuesday, 7:30 p.m.
INFO: Featuring Augusta Collegium Musicum, William Toole, director with special guests: Reid Memorial Presbyterian Church Choir, Dr. Larry Abernathy, director of music, St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Mr. Keith Shafer, director of music and organist. Tickets are $20. Call (706) 826-4700.
CHRISTMAS AT CEDAR ROCK
WHERE: Macedonia United Methodist Church
WHEN: Dec. 10-12, 6:30-9 p.m.
INFO: This community outreach mission project has something for every member of the family to enjoy. After stopping by the welcome booth in the Family Life Center, visitors can browse the General Store for gift items, Christmas decorations and homemade baked goods, jellies and jams. There will also be The Macedonia Café, Kid's Only Shoppe, a petting zoo, hay ride and Santa will be on hand. Call Sheilah Johnson at (706) 595-6146.
CHRISTMAS AT WRIGHTSBORO
WHERE: Wrightsboro Church
WHEN: Dec. 11, 6 p.m.
INFO: Dr. Jamie Lemley will speak. A social hour will follow.
ANGEL TREE
WHERE: McDuffie County Partners For Success
WHEN: Until Dec. 11 at 1 p.m.
INFO: Please help families in the community by meeting the children's Christmas needs and wish lists. Call (706) 595-3112 to adopt a family as an individual, business or organization. Please indicate what size family you wish to adopt. McDuffie County Partners For Success is working with other community organizations to make certain families are not on more than one Angel Tree and to be sure that the most families possible are served.
HOLIDAY ON THE HILL
WHERE: Hickory Hill, 502 Hickory Hill Dr., Thomson
WHEN: Dec. 11 and 12, 7 p.m.
INFO: Tour the Southern Naturalists exhibit to explore Christmas from a more natural point of view. Dig up holiday traditions rooted in nature, flock to winter bird migrations, digest the culinary science of holiday goodies for your feathered friends, and more. $5 per person. Southern cheese and wine reception at 6:30 p.m. Tour begins at 7 p.m. For a required reservation, call (706) 595-7777.
