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A huge thank you goes out to all of the women, men and children who worked so hard at the Chisago Lakes area Free Thanksgiving Meal.  

The meal served over 425 people this year which is amazing.  None of that would be possible if it were not for a small army of volunteers that took time out of their holiday to serve our friends and neighbors.  I have volunteered in the past and I would highly recommend it, it is beyond rewarding and you will have a great time guaranteed.

This weekend if you are in the Christmas mood, we have you covered.  There are a bunch of events taking place to get you into the spirit.  

Saturday, at First United Methodist Church in Lindstrom, they are hosting their annual living nativity.  It is held in the lower parking lot of the church (by the Middle School road) outdoors.  Dress warmly, they do have bonfires to stand-by, they will also have cookies and hot cocoa.  

The show times are 6, 6:30 and 7pm.  We have gone to this for as long as they’ve been putting it on and take it from me, there is something moving about watching that winter night in Bethlehem the night Jesus was born.  The church is located at 30828 Irene Avenue in Lindstrom.  

Saturday at 9am, Center City will play host to two holiday craft and bake sales.  The very popular Chisago Lake Lutheran Church bazaar will feature over 35 crafters as well as “Bethlehem Bakery” which will be selling  yummy baked goods.  They will have raffles all day long and you can even take part in the sloppy joe lunch.  The bazaar runs from 9am-3pm.

The Center City Fire Department Auxiliary will also be hosting their annual holiday boutique.  Beginning at 9am, you will find unique gifts, decorations, and plenty of goodies.  Santa will make an appearance from 11am to 1pm, so bring the kids.

Saturday evening from 4:30-6pm, the city of Lindstrom invites everyone to come to Memorial Park for the annual tree lighting festival.  Santa will arrive at 5pm for photos.  They will have hot cocoa, coffee and bonfires.  The boy scouts will be on hand helping folks making s’mores for you to enjoy.   Chisago Lakes Brass Ensemble and the Choir will perform as well.  They ask that you please bring a non-perishable food item and or a toy to donate.  The stores downtown will be open for you to get a jump on your Christmas Shopping.

Chisago City wraps up the Christmas weekend Sunday, with their tree lighting ceremony.  The ceremony begins at 4:30 and runs until 6pm. 

There will be horse drawn wagon rides, a petting zoo, cloggers, the Chisago Lakes band and Choir, and this year’s Little Miss will flip the lights on at 5pm.

Santa will arrive shortly after the lights come on. Your children are encouraged to include a self-addressed envelope,  with their  wishlist so Santa can respond.  They are also asking for a non-perishable food donation and or a toy donation for Anonymous Santa.

Thanks so much to the folks that put on the Taylors Falls Lighting Festival last Friday.  One of our favorite events to take in, the evening is a magical night of Christmas lights and a parade featuring floats all decorated for Christmas.  The streets were packed with families enjoying the brisk evening activities.

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