By Marilyn Thomas

Small towns take the Christmas spirit to a new level; residents and visitors are filled with a wonderful sense of giving, kindness, and generosity. Every year the prominent Lake Murray towns of Irmo, Lexington, and Chapin coordinate and host special festivities that nurture harmonious holiday spirit. Shared experiences extend beyond the events themselves, leading to continued interactions and strong support within the community. Each of these unique Christmas celebrations has something incredible to offer. As you go about preparing and planning this holiday season, take a few moments to visit your favorite local businesses and let them know just how much you appreciate them.

Town Of Irmo

On Tuesday, December 3, Irmo Mayor Bill Danielson will officially launch the town’s seasonal events around 6 p.m. when he shares a welcoming salutation with community members who have gathered around the town park’s gazebo at 7330 Carlisle Street. Participants will be entertained with several holiday musical performances by local school bands and choirs showcasing their talent beneath the hand-made decorations crafted by members of SC Career Kids, a local nonprofit.

The pinnacle of the festivities is the annual tree lighting ceremony, a treasured holiday tradition that begins with a countdown and culminates in a dazzling display of Christmas lights glowing from the chosen conifer’s branches. Neighbors will then turn their attention to fun, fellowship, and food as pizza, cookies, and hot chocolate are served while the youngest in the crowd await the final grand act of the evening— Santa’s arrival. With sirens wailing and lights flashing, the fur-suited gentleman will dismount the shiny red engine waving festive greetings and good wishes.

“The Irmo Tree Lighting is a truly magical experience that brings joy and holiday spirit to the entire community,” says Mayor Danielson.

Town Of Lexington

Just two days later, the nearby municipality of Lexington will officially commence their holiday happenings on Thursday, December 5. “We’d love for everyone to join us for this year’s Snowball Festival in the Town of Lexington!” says Mayor Hazel Livingston. “It’s a four-day event featuring activities for the entire family to enjoy. Come out and join us as we kick off the Christmas season in the Town of Lexington.”

Festivities will begin on Thursday and Friday at 4 p.m. with a Snowball Market in the Icehouse Amphitheater Pavilion at 107 West Main Street, a shopping excursion that features local vendors selling one-of-a-kind creations as well as fresh produce and other edible treats.

On Friday at 6:30 p.m. neighbors will gather for the annual Carolighting Ceremony and unite their voices in singing while the town’s Christmas tree comes to life with a warm, festive glow. Santa will make an appearance and welcome children’s wishes and photo ops from 4 to 8 p.m. As dusk descends, “The Muppet Christmas Carol” movie will then be broadcast on an outdoor screen.

Saturday’s events will be no less exciting with the Snowball Carnival beginning at 1 p.m. Children will especially be thrilled with free amusement rides, bounce houses, face painting, balloon artists, and opportunities to visit with Santa Claus. Additionally, food vendors will be selling their specialties and the day will end with an airing of the Polar Express at 5:30 p.m.

The annual Snowball Christmas Parade, sponsored by the Town of Lexington and Lexington Jaycees, will roll down Main Street on Sunday afternoon at 3 p.m. Although this concludes the festival, the holiday spirit will continue with a downtown Santa Scavenger Hunt in Main Street restaurants and retail stores. With their checklists in hand, participants can visit local businesses to seek out and find signature Santa ornaments. Lexington Town Hall, the Chamber of Commerce, and various social media outlets will post additional details; completed scavenger hunt forms can be submitted for prizes.

Town Of Chapin

On the northern side of Lake Murray, the town of Chapin will be hosting their seasonal Old Timey Christmas celebration in the downtown area near the corner of Beaufort Street and Lexington Avenue. This fourth annual event, planned for December 14 at 5 p.m., will offer an assortment of family-friendly yuletide activities and shopping opportunities.

“Old Timey Christmas is a festival featuring local vendors in a Christmas market, meet-and-greets with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and local children’s groups singing Christmas carols,” says Dylan Francies, communications specialist for the Town of Chapin.

“We, along with Mayor Al Koon,” he adds, “would love to invite everyone in the community to come spend the most wonderful time of the year with us.”