From STAFF REPORTS

VIENNA - Christmas spirit arrives here on Saturday, Nov. 22 with a full day of events and activities planned to officially kick-off the Christmas season.

Street decorations will be up and turned on prior to this date. Businesses will be decorated and ready to receive Christmas shoppers who don’t want to wait until the last minute.

Things will get underway at 9 a.m. with the Sweet Things Dessert Competition at the Vienna Heritage House. After the judging, visitors will have an opportunity to purchase any of the delicacies.

At 10 a.m. vendors will have their wares in the City Square and music will fill the air throughout the day. Vienna merchants will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m, and refreshments will be served at participating businesses. Special sales will be offered all day.

The traditional Children’s Parade will begin at 3 p.m. All children up to fifth grade level are invited to participate. Immediately after the parade Santa Claus will be chauffeured to the Vienna Heritage House.

Children can have their picture made with Santa while giving him their wish lists and convincing him they have been good boys and girls. Children can also do their own private Christmas shopping in the Secret Santa Shop located in the Old City Jail in the Vienna Heritage House. Nothing will be priced over $5.

The day will come to an end with the ceremonial lighting of the “Lights From the Heart” tree located in the City Square. Each light is given in memory or honor of a loved one. Donations are $1 per light and proceeds will go to the programs and projects of Keep Vienna Beautiful.

For additional information about the day’s events, to participate in any of the activities, or to set up a booth in the City Square, interested persons should call the Vienna Community Development Office at 229-268-4920.