On Dec. 12, Holiday Magic returns to Newark Valley as they present their annual event to begin at 4 p.m. and run until 8 p.m. in downtown Newark Valley.
Right off the green, from the Rollie Noble Room beside the post office, holiday music will spill out into the fresh, crisp air, along with that distinctive aroma of gingerbread. Let that aroma, mixed with that of hot cocoa, coffee and popcorn, lure you in so you can indulge in Giblin’s Kids’ Candy Shop (homemade candies offered by fifth graders at Newark Valley Middle School) or delicious homemade goodies from the Newark Valley Art Club. The Eastern Star will be on hand with delicious pies and the Newark Valley United Methodist Church will also offer homemade soup and bread.
Enjoy the holiday sounds of Curt Osgood and Friends while you visit with your neighbors at the Holiday Magic Cafe.
Spend your time marveling at all the creatively designed gingerbread houses with a backdrop of holiday greenery and sparkling lights. Entries will be judged on visual appeal, use of materials and originality in six categories: experienced adult (16 and up), experienced youth (under 16), novice adult (16 and up), novice youth (11 to 15), novice youngster (10 and under), and group or family. To enter, call Stacy Hoyt at 321-1572 or email to stayc93@aol.com. Entries will be accepted on Thursday, Dec. 10, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Noble Room.
Area shops will also dance with lights and activity. There will be wine tasting at Village Wine and Spirits and delicious goodies at the Cardinal Café.
Stop in at the Tappan Spaulding Memorial and have your picture taken with the GRINCH from Dr. Seuss’ “How the GRINCH Stole Christmas”! He will visit with library patrons and has agreed to have his picture taken, even though the GRINCH really hates Christmas. There will also be books for all the good boys and girls.
The Depot, located off Whig Street, will be dressed to the nines with a Heavenly Frosty Christmas display where angels and snowmen will fill every space. Marvel at the two model trains on a dioramic layout in the waiting room. Of course it wouldn’t be the Depot without oodles of delectable food to include pulled pork sandwiches, chili, sloppy joes, hot dogs with the works, and luscious desserts. Warm your tummy with hot chocolate or mulled cider.
And Santa will come to the Depot from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. to add to his list all the Christmas wishes the wonder-eyed children have to offer. While they wait for Santa’s arrival, there will be holiday crafts and cookie decorating; and of course, cookie eating.
While you are enjoying the warm fires outside of the Depot, take in the hushed beauty of the live nativity presented by St. John’s Youth Group from 4 to 6 p.m.
Horse and wagon rides will run between the village green and the depot throughout the evening. So don your warmest mittens and festive hat and join in the holiday fun at Newark Valley’s tenth annual Holiday Magic Festival.
