Our Opinion: Holiday gifts for community to enjoy

Choirs, dancers and performers again will be featured in Jefferson City's downtown storefronts during what has become one of the community's most popular holiday events.

Downtown Living Windows, from 6-9 p.m. Friday, is among a variety of activities taking place this week and extending throughout the weekend.

The festivities begin at 5:45 p.m. Thursday at Rotary Park with a ceremony to light the Mayor's Christmas tree. The lighting will be at 6:30 p.m. at the park, at the north end of Bolivar Street where if overlooks the Missouri River.

In keeping with the tradition of Downtown Living Windows, performers and events will include both old and new.

Once again, children age 12 and younger are invited to walk through the News Tribune Candy Cane House on Cole County Courthouse lawn from 6-9 p.m. Children who pick a candy cane with a lucky marking will win a prize.

Hawthorn Bank will celebrate 85 years of hosting Santa Claus at its Christmas Party for children. And Central Bank will serve hot cider and cookies while Sweet Adelines perform from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Century Link will provide a link to the North Pole so children may discuss what's on their Christmas list with one of Santa's elves.

Trolley shuttles will pick up people from selected parking lots bordering downtown area, including lots for the Truman Building, City Hall and St. Peter Church.

Preceding and during Living Windows, a spaghetti dinner hosted by Boy Scout Troop 11 will be from 4-8 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 301 E. Capitol Ave.

Another holiday tradition, the candlelight tours of Governor's Mansion, will be held from 6:30-9 p.m. Friday and from 2-4 p.m. Saturday. The event provides an opportunity to enjoy the Mansion's interior adorned in holiday finery.

The elegance of the Mansion will give way to the sounds of rock 'n' roll when the Jefferson City Christmas Parade begins at 4:30 p.m. Saturday downtown. This year's theme is "A Rock and Roll Christmas."

These events are the results of the much time, energy and talent provided by government and business leaders, as well as numerous volunteers.

The activities are a gift to the community designed to entertain, share and spread the holiday spirit