There's no doubt about it -- Christmas is the most magical time of the entire year; however, it becomes even more magical when you spend it in the small, beautiful town of Monroe, Georgia. There are a multitude of activities for the entire family to enjoy throughout the entire Christmas season, as well as the town being dressed to the nines for the holidays. Here are six things that make Christmas the best time to spend in Monroe, as well as some holiday activities to mark of the family bucket list.
1. The downtown lights.
Towards the holiday season, the elves in Monroe decorate every tree that lines the streets of historic downtown Monroe. This makes for some beautiful photos, and makes shopping for the family's gifts a fun and memorable experience.
2. The annual Downtown Monroe Christmas parade.
Debateably the best part of spending Christmas in Monroe, Georgia is their annual downtown Christmas Parade. This year, 2016, is the 63rd year this event has been held. The residents and visitors line the streets through downtown to see floats, marching bands, twirlers, cheerleaders, Santa and Mrs. Claus and so much more. Some floats even throw candy for the little ones. This is an event that is not to be missed, and you can catch it this year on December 8th with this year's theme, "An All-Star Christmas."
3. Monroe's live nativity.
There would be no Christmas without Christ, and that is celebrated every year in Downtown Monroe with a live nativity. The nativity is usually held about a week before Christmas until Christmas Eve every night from 6-8 pm. They have Mary, Joseph, the 3 kings, baby Jesus and even live animals to tell the story of Jesus' birth in the stable. This is an event everyone should see at least once, as it really reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas.
4. The McDaniel-Tichenor House's Mini Evergreen Festival.
This year, the McDaniel-Tichenor House is hosting their annual Mini Evergreen festival once more. On November 11, 2016, guests can come enjoy delicious holiday foods and beverages while glimpsing at unique holiday items and donations from local friends and businesses in our community, and then bid to take home their favorite items. You can visit the link here for more information on how to attend -- it's an event that is not to be missed.
5. The McDaniel-Tichenor House's Sassy Soiree with Santa.
This is probably my favorite event of the year, as it focuses on making Christmas magic for girls aged 5-10. This year on December 2nd, the girls come dressed in their favorite pajamas and enjoy dinner, crafts, a book with Santa, Christmas movies and music and so much more! Seeing the girls' faces light up with joy makes the event that much worthwhile. Spots may still be available, so visit the link here to find out how to register your little girl for one of the most magical events of the season.
6. Kelley Channell Studio's gorgeous Santa portraiture.
Want a beautiful photo of your little ones with Santa? Kelley Channell Studios is the only the place to go to capture your family perfectly. Her Santa sessions are limited and she only holds them a few times during the Christmas season; however it is well worth the wait as the photos she captures are stunning. Visit her site here to find out how to book one of these exclusive sessions.
