Before experiencing the death of dead week, cramming in studying for finals and packing up for a nice, long winter break, take a few moments to ring in the Christmas holiday on campus and in Searcy.
There are a number of events in the area to brighten the Christmas spirit before Dec. 25 rolls around.
The Holiday of Lights Festival will be presented on Dec. 1. The event will feature a lighted parade, pageant and craft show. A horse-drawn carriage can also offer a ride through Berryhill Park and its Christmas lights display.
Harding will host its seventh annual Christmas Open House, Thursday, Dec. 6 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Refreshments will be served, music will be played and carriage rides will be available to enjoy the 85,000 cascading lights surrounding the front lawn. You can register for the event through your Harding email or the Office of Advancement.
Located on 1166 Higginson St. in Searcy, the Pioneer Village will host an “Old Fashion Christmas,” Dec. 8 from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Village will display pioneer buildings decorated as if in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Carolers will sing throughout the afternoon and sugar cookie samples from a recipe more than 100 years old will be served. Christmas gifts can also be purchased from the Pioneer Village gift shop. Admission is free and donations are accepted.
“The Living Nativity” will be on display at the First Assembly of God located on 101 Benton Ave. An entire cast will present the nativity scene with a full set to experience the birth of Jesus. Admission is free and donations are also welcome. The event will be held the second Dec. 7-9 and 14-16 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m on Friday and from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
The classic tale of “A Christmas Carol,” by Charles Dickens will be performed Nov. 30 – Dec. 16 at the Center on the Square on 219 W. Arch. The show has been adapted for the Searcy stage and will be directed by Christopher Thompson. Tickets can be purchased for dinner and the show for $27, senior and students for $24 and $12 for show only.
Settle back and celebrate the season in Searcy before the books and the impending break get the best of you.