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Posted: 11/28/12

Christmas celebrations
to run Nov. 29 - Dec. 1

by CHRIS GRAY
Observer Staff Writer

      Three events will ring in the Christmas season this coming weekend in the Romeo area.
       The Romeo-Washington-Bruce Parks and Recreation, in conjunction with the local Lions Clubs, invites residents to join in the holiday festivities from Nov. 29 to Dec. 1.
       An evening parade down Main Street will lead Santa Claus to the Village Park for a tree lighting ceremony. The event will begin at 7 p.m. on Nov. 29.
       On the following evening, Nov. 30, Santa will make his way to Washington Township for the tree lighting Christmas party, held at the Township Municipal Building from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
       Then, on Dec. 1, residents can enjoy breakfast with Santa from 9 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at the Romeo Masonic Temple.
       The trio of events are a tradition for local residents to celebrate the upcoming holidays. Clara Russell, director of RWB Parks and Recreation, said although the holiday events are weeks away, they help kindle the Christmas spirit.
       "It really makes you feel like the holiday season is here," Russell said. "They make it feel like Christmas should be next week."
       Those familiar with the events will notice a few tweaks to make them more interesting. For instance, the parade on Nov. 29 will march down Main Street as opposed to W. St. Clair Street before heading to the park.
       Russell said the change was inspired from observing where residents watched the parade.
       "About 99 percent of the people stood by the Village Park to watch the parade," she said. "We know 32 Mile Road is a main thoroughfare, but (the parade) needs to be downtown with all the Christmas decorations."
       The parade is expected to have around 20 entries, though any entrants will be accepted the day of the event. Staging will take place at St. Johns Lutheran Church, with participants encouraged to use lights in their entries.
       The Romeo Lions Club will provide roasted chestnuts along with holiday music in the Village Park. Following the parade, local officials will present Santa with the key and children are invited to speak with the jolly old elf.
       The event is free of charge.

       Washington Township
       On Nov. 30, the Washington Lions Club invites residents to its annual tree lighting ceremony. The evening starts with the lighting of the tree and the presentation of the key of the township to Santa.
       Following the presentation will be an indoor party with refreshments and entertainment, along with the chance for kids to visit with Santa.
       "Moving the Christmas party has been a big success," Russell said. "It seems like every Friday night we've done this is freezing cold."
       The event is free of charge.

       Breakfast with Santa
       Residents can continue the indoor festivities on Dec. 1 with Breakfast with Santa. Two seatings are scheduled for the morning at 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. and 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
       New to this year's breakfast is a performance from the local theater group, All the World's a Stage. The performance will take place in between the two breakfast times at 10 a.m.
       "Tradition is good, but adding a little flair to the tradition doesn't hurt," Russell said.
       Residents can enjoy a breakfast of pancakes, eggs and sausage while children can have their pictures taken with Santa while talking with him.
       Tickets are limited for the breakfast, so advanced purchases are encouraged. Tickets are $8 per adult, $5 per child ages 2-12 and free for children ages 2 and under. Non-resident prices are $11 per adult and $8 per child.
       Registration is not required for either of the holiday events. For more information, call (586) 752-6543.