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An Old-Fashioned Christmas

Holiday celebration going on today in State Center

T-R FILE PHOTO Santa and Mrs. Claus will again be on hand for State Center’s yearly Old-Fashioned Christmas on Main Street, held today. Most activities start at 5 p.m.

STATE CENTER — The 18th annual Old-Fashioned Christmas on Main will offer a variety of family-friendly activities today.

“Many community volunteers have been preparing special events for patrons of all ages to enjoy today in historic downtown State Center,” said coordinator Julie Riley.

Sponsored by the State Center Development Promotions Committee and area businesses, the event kicks-off at 1 p.m., with the West Marshall Black and Gold Singers caroling along Main St. Also starting at 1 p.m. will be crafts and vendors set up at Mitchell Family Funeral Home. From 5-7 p.m., also at that location, will be a cheeseball sale, sponsored by St. Joseph’s Catholic Church CCW. Patrons can also enjoy hot cider an Cinnabons there after 5 p.m. From 1-7:30 p.m., a Holiday Wine Tasting by Jasper Winery will be offered at Jacobson’s Portrait Studio.

Come enjoy complimentary s’mores at the fire pits in front of Yolo’s and the Development Office from 5-7 p.m., managed by the State Center Fire & EMS.

Youngsters are invited to attend a special story time and make-and-take craft activity at Gutekunst Public Library from 4-5 p.m. Afterwards, they can head over to the historic Watson’s Grocery Store for the chance to tell Santa and Mrs. Claus what they want for Christmas, starting at 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Also during that time slot will be: Santa’s elves and helpers passing out treats along Main St., a yarn ball snow ball fight, a student-led chili cook-off at Broadway Dance Studio, John Schumacher on guitar at Hometown Foods, and horse-drawn trolley rides.

“The trolley rides are popular, and something we do every year,” Riley said.

The First Presbyterian Church is sponsoring a spaghetti dinner in the upstairs of City Hall, from 5-7:30 p.m. Live music will be provided by the Heart of Iowa Sweet Adelines at 6:30 p.m., followed by the Marshalltown Men’s Chorus at 7:15 p.m.

Also of interest is a life-size nativity, created by Jim and Nancy Figgins, set up on 112 W. Main St., and a silent auction going on at Central State Bank.

“There won’t be a live auction this year, but the silent auction will be big,” Riley said. “It will offer grilling baskets, big stuffed animals, swimming parties, and more.”

New local businesses will enjoy grand opening celebrations, including Salon Envy, located at 130 W. Main St., as well as Just Sew, located at 110 W. Main St. Food and drawings will be offered.

“With our fast-paced lives, step back, slow down and enjoy the spirit of the Christmas season. We invite you to bring your family for a safe, fun-filled night. Take a family photo and remember the true meaning of Christmas,” Riley said.

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Contact Sara Jordan-Heintz at 641-753-6611 or sjordan@timesrepublican.com

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