Volunteers for a Progressive Fairfield will once again host the annual Festival of Lights at Leo French Park, starting Friday, December 5th and running through the end of the year. The popular drive-through light display will be open at all hours, with volunteer greeters on hand from 5–7 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 5–8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Santa Claus will make his grand entrance during Fairfield’s Lighted Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 6th, and will visit with children afterward at his house in the park. Santa will also return to meet children on December 12th & 13th, 19th & 20th, and December 21st from 5–8 p.m.
A special community celebration is planned for Saturday, December 20th, when FNB hosts its annual Festival of Lights event from 5 to 8 p.m. The evening will feature a live nativity by Elm River CP and the Brown Church, appearances by The Grinch, the Walkers with Luther the Donkey, games, treats, and visits with Santa. The Wayne County Enrichment Program will provide snacks, and PIAP Oil Company will supply heaters to keep guests warm while they wait for Santa—the busiest spot in the park. Each evening of the Festival is hosted by local volunteers, and donations are welcomed to help keep the lights shining bright. Highlights of this year’s host schedule include:
December 5th: FCHS Class of “83”
December 6th: Jane McDowell and Kristi Hornung (following the parade)
December 7th: Jasper Grade School
December 8th: The Weaver Sisters
December 9th: Jane McDowell and Linda Monge
December 10th: LeMond Chevrolet Chrysler Crew
December 11th: WADI Girls
December 12th: Yvette Anderson (Wayne County Treasurer) and LizAnn Woodrow (Wayne County Clerk)
December 13th: Wayne County Saddle Club
December 14th: Kids In Motion
December 15th: St. Edwards Catholic Church
December 16th: 4-H Kids
December 17th: Merriam Community Church
December 18th: Wayne County Historical Society and Uniquely Rustique
December 19th: Mark and Sherry Wells
December 20th: FNB hosts the special event night with special guests (more details to come)
December 21st: Cornerstone Church
December 22nd: Jasper basketball girls
Community members are encouraged to attend, support, and enjoy the festive lights, treats, and family fun all month long at Leo French Park.