Tamaqua news

Spirit of Christmas

Tamaqua's Annual Spirit of Christmas Festival will be held this weekend at a variety of venues in the downtown area.

Festivities will begin with a candlelit walking tour of the historic district. Participants will meet at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, at the Tamaqua Historical Society Museum, 116 W. Broad St.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive in town on Friday. The Santa Parade will begin at 6:30 p.m. Santa and Mrs. Claus will make their way to Depot Square Park and flip the switch to illuminate the park for the first time this season. The duo will then make their way to the Tamaqua Chamber of Commerce Office, 114 W. Broad St., where Santa will visit with the local children.

Saturday events will be held at the Salvation Army Community Center, 105 W. Broad St. Christmas movies will be shown, from noon to 2 p.m.

The annual Christmas Tree Festival will also be held Saturday. Civic groups and individuals are welcome to decorate an artificial tree, which will be on display at the Tamaqua Chamber Office. Vote for your favorite from noon to 3 p.m. All trees will then be donated to residents in need.

Bakers are welcome to make their favorite cookies for the annual Cookie Contest. Cookies may be taken to the chamber office on Saturday, from noon to 2 p.m. Judging will be held from 2 to 3 p.m.

Tours of the historic 1799 Burkhardt Moser Cabin will be available on Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday, noon to 3 p.m. The cabin is located at 307 E. Broad St.

The festival will conclude on Sunday with the lighting of the Community Christmas Tree at 6 p.m.

For more information, on any of the events, call (570) 668-1880.