Snow and bitter temperatures didn't stop the community of Eldon from kicking off the holiday season this weekend, holding the first of several holiday events taking place throughout the Christmas season.
With mild temperatures still intact Friday night, a quick crowning of Princess Holly, Prince Berry, Miss Bell and Mister Jingle took place. Saturday morning, however, much of the Lake of the Ozarks area awakened to high winds, rain and even snow, but the show went on.
The day began with the "Winter Wonderland" parade, which brought hundreds of people to watch the floats and refill their candy stash. Following the parade, Santa could be found at the community center where children got their first opportunity of the season to put in their Christmas requests. Children's activities were also offered by PAVE/Americorp, and adults could take the opportunity to purchase Eldon PTO 50/50 tickets.
The afternoon was filled with food, courtesy of Maple Street Café, and entertainment from the Maple Street Dance, Eldon High School Choir, Eldon High School Jazz Band and American Gymnastics.
Upcoming holiday events include:
• A free Thanksgiving Dinner at the Eldon Community Center from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Thanksgiving Day.
• On Dec. 5, the Eldon PTO will host a pancake breakfast with Santa from 8:30-11 a.m. at Eldon South Elementary School for $3. Pictures with Santa will cost $2, and free crafts will be provided by the Eldon Parents as Teachers organization.
• On Dec. 9, the Eldon Area Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Christmas Luncheon at the Eldon Community Center from noon-1 p.m. The luncheon is open to the public and includes a buffet dinner, drink and dessert for $15. The Eldon High School Choir will provide entertainment. Reservations are required.
• On Dec. 12, the city of Eldon will present Eldon's Hometown Christmas from 6-8 p.m. Several businesses will remain open for shopping, and hayrides down Maple Street will be offered to view the participating businesses' live window displays as part of the second annual Living Windows and Tree Lighting Ceremony. There will also be Christmas Caroling and the mayor will light the community Christmas tree at Whittles Pocket Park. Community members are invited to bring an ornament to put on the community tree, and toys will be collected for the annual Lloyd Belt toy drive.