The Columbus-Lowndes Public Library invites the community to enter a winter wonderland of decorated trees during the library’s annual Festival of Trees and Open House from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday.
Music, refreshments and youth activities are also part of this holiday event showcasing more than 20 trees readied for Christmas by local groups and businesses.
“Each year the festival has grown and grown,” said library director Erin Busbea. “Last year we had our biggest turnout yet, and we’re hoping for even more this time.”
Some organizations and businesses are participating for the first time; others decorate a library tree each December. Every group chooses its own theme. Patrons will have the opportunity to cast a vote for their top pick.
“Carolers will also be singing some of your favorite holiday songs, and there will be crafts for kids and fun games for teens,” said library staff member and event co-coordinator Brenda Durrett.
Wilani Turner is coordinator of circulation and technical services at the library. She is also one of the Anointed Harmony gospel quartet, one of several musical groups scheduled to perform during the open house.
“We’re looking forward to it; I’m really excited,” she said of the foursome’s planned Christmas medley and traditional gospel repertoire. The quartet, whose members are from Columbus, Brooksville and West Point, also decorated a tree.
Snow Day
Another event on the library’s holiday calendar is Snow Day from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday.
“We’ll have snacks and crafts, and Santa and Miz Claus will be here — and children can wear their pajamas,” said Busbea.
Mississippi Public Broadcasting will be on hand, giving away books to the first 150 children.
The Festival of Trees, open house and Snow Day are all ways to welcome the community to the library, the director explained.
“We really hope everyone comes,” she said. “See the trees, enjoy the music, take part in Snow Day, and see what we offer at the library.”
For more information, contact the library at 662-329-5300 or email festival coordinators Brenda Durrett at [email protected], or Mona Vance-Ali at [email protected]. The library is located at 314 Seventh St. N.
Jan Swoope is the Lifestyles Editor for The Commercial Dispatch.
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