As winter knocks on the closed doors of our ever-thick jackets, we ponder the Christmas spirit and what it means. Or even better, what to do? Children seem to retain the enthusiasm and unrest that we at once all felt about this holiday, and to help revive that lost spark, we find events that helps us remember. Though we may not boast such escapades as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the New River Valley knows how to celebrate with its people.

Most towns and counties have planned their own holiday tree lightings and parades to spread the holiday spirit. Adventuring outdoors may seem a risk in the blustery conditions that seem to plague this part of year. Yet, the warmth provided through sensational experience and family get-togethers is enough to bear the elements.

Blacksburg is holding a one-weekend event to display their holiday lights followed by a parade down Main Street. Starting Dec. 5, Blacksburg is hosting a Holiday Lights Festival in the Farmer’s Market from 4-7 p.m. There will be free hot cider, hot cocoa, and other seasonal food items for sale. Street-side merchants will offer crafts, games and entertainment for the family, and music to bring the festive songs for your pleasure. Afterward, starting at 7 p.m., the Blacksburg Parade will take place in the middle of the historic downtown.

The Town of Radford is providing a similar parade and tree lighting ceremony for its residents. On Wednesday, Dec. 3, Radford Public Library will hold its Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at 7 p.m. A Festival of Lights Celebration, sponsored by the Vintage Wine Cellar, will kick off on Dec. 6, at 4:30 p.m. at the Applebee’s located at 31 W. Main Street. Following is the Radford City Annual Holiday Parade. Find your special spot or corner, and watch as floats, cars, and Santa stroll through downtown Radford. Once again, this will start at 5 p.m., Saturday Dec. 6.

Pulaski County is also planning its winter celebration within its borders. Town of Pulaski Christmas Celebration invites families and children to enjoy an array of activities on Nov. 30, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. However, its Holiday Lights Trolley Tours will be enough to light up the country sky. The scenic trolley ride takes you through historic Pulaski town during its full illumination of lights. Dublin will be holding their annual Christmas at Claytor Lake, for people to enjoy fireside chats and the serenity of nature.

Floyd County throws its annual Christmas Parade on Sunday, Dec. 7 at 3 p.m. The Jacksonville Center for the Arts is holding a Winterfest for locals to show off their arts and crafts followed by refreshments and music.

Blacksburg
• Holiday Lights Festival: Farmer’s Market 4-7 p.m., Dec. 5
• Downtown Parade: 7 p.m., Dec. 5
Radford
• Library Christmas Tree Lighting: 7 p.m., Dec. 3
• Festival of Lights: Applebee’s, 4:30 p.m., Dec. 6
• Downtown Parade: Main Street, 5 p.m., Dec. 6
Pulaski
• Christmas Celebration: Jackson Park, 3:30-5:30 p.m., Nov. 30
• “All Aboard the Pulaski Polar Express”: Downtown Pulaski, 5:30, 6:30, 7:30, Dec. 11
• Dublin – “Christmas at Claytor Lake”: Dec. 12-13
Floyd
• Christmas Parade: 3 p.m., Dec. 7
• “Winterfest”: Jacksonville Center, Dec. 5-7

Wheatley Stefan is an intern at the New River Voice.