Christmas came early as part of Follansbee event
Craig Howell A JOLLY VISITOR – Kids of all ages had the opportunity to visit with Santa Claus as he made an appearance at Christmas in the Park.
Craig Howell HOLIDAY DECORATIONS – The signs of the Christmas season were on full display, with banners, inflatables, and other decorations spread throughout Follansbee Park.
Craig Howell VARIETY OF VENDORS – More than 80 vendors lined the pathways of Follansbee Park over the weekend, as part of the 24th Christmas in the Park.
Craig Howell A JOLLY VISITOR – Kids of all ages had the opportunity to visit with Santa Claus as he made an appearance at Christmas in the Park.
Craig Howell HOLIDAY DECORATIONS – The signs of the Christmas season were on full display, with banners, inflatables, and other decorations spread throughout Follansbee Park.
Craig Howell VARIETY OF VENDORS – More than 80 vendors lined the pathways of Follansbee Park over the weekend, as part of the 24th Christmas in the Park.
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FOLLANSBEE - The sounds of the holiday season filled the air in Follansbee over the weekend, with residents and visitors alike gathering for Christmas in the Park.
Held for 24 years at Follansbee Municipal Park, the event provided a chance to do some early shopping - with booths lining the park’s pathways offering a variety of crafts, baked goods, decorations, and more - all with holiday music played to add to the festive spirit.
"We have over 80 vendors," noted Co-chair Stacey Williams, adding much of what was on hand, from breads, to wreaths, to toys, and scarves, were hand-made by those who set up shop.
Crochet by Kim, for example, offered a collection of hand towels, customized ornaments, and crocheted items, while Pink Lady Creations had a variety of wreaths, table lanterns, hats, gloves and knitted characters. Barbara’s Embroidery sold towels, wall art, bags and other custom-embroidered items.
Homemade Happiness by Angie, selling homemade sourdough, muffins, cookies, and other baked goods, sold out of their inventory on Saturday, while the Milk and Honey Farm Stand was on hand with its own pepperoni rolls, as well as parfait, organic lemonade, cookies, and other selections. Weirton’s Rustik Rollz Bakehouse had a selection including various breads, rolls, scones, muffins, and cupcakes.
Several life-sized nutcrackers, provided by Nelson Fine Arts and Gifts, were on display at the Follansbee Community House.
This was the sixth year the nutcrackers, part of the annual Steubenville Nutcracker Village, have been a part of the event
Meanwhile, area youth had an opportunity to meet with Santa Claus at the park’s gazebo, receiving a treat bag while getting their pictures taken and telling the jolly elf about their Christmas wishes.
The festival also provides a reminder of the spirit of giving often associated with the Christmas season.
Proceeds derived from vendor fees, as well as drawings from a 50/50, holiday-themed gift basket, and a 65-inch 4K Smart television, will go toward the Follansbee REACH program, which operates a food pantry for the area, as well as to assist local children with special medical needs.
Representatives of REACH and Toys for Tots also were on hand at the Community House, providing information to visitors about the organizations and how to support them.
Co-chair Bill Secrist offered appreciation, on behalf of the volunteer festival committee, for those who signed up to be vendors, as well as those who came to check out the event itself.
"Thanks to everyone for coming out," Secrist said.
While weather for much of Saturday stayed dry, the committee did have to close up the festivities early Sunday as a result of rain in the area.
(Howell can be contacted at chowell@weirtondailytimes.com)