October 12, 2012 – Are you ready for the best time of the year? I certainly am, and, I promise you, so are the folks at City Hall.
The temperature is working its way down as we look forward to Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and ringing in the New Year. Is it just me or did 2012 slip by pretty quick??? I guess time flies when we’re having fun in Rockwall!
There is something for everybody with events and programs that get better each year with more and more people supporting them. We kick-off with the annual Halloween parties – which this year are on the same day:
Not So Scary Haunted Hayride Oct. 19 9-10:30am and 10:30am-noon
At Harry Myers Park for kids 3-5 years of age. There will be a monster mash dance, spooky snacks, storytelling and each child gets a pumpkin. Cost for residents is $10. You must pre-register!
Scare on the Square (Oct. 27th, 4-6 pm)
A hit since the first year it was held in Downtown Rockwall, this event has evolved into a true community gathering. Designed for the younger crowd that might have to go to bed earlier, it has a lot to offer – a hayride, trick-or-treating at downtown businesses, face painting and so much more.
Halloween Extravaganza at The Harbor (Oct. 27th, 6 pm)
Great fun for the entire family held at one of our city’s most beautiful settings. You will see some of the greatest and maybe scariest costumes. I’ll dress up if you will! Carnival games, bounce houses, music and a costume contest will remind you of the school carnivals we all loved.
Planned for our 55+ crowd is: Monster Mash Luncheon Oct. 5 for Halloween, the Turkey Day Luncheon on Nov. 2 and the Christmas Luncheon on Dec. 7. They are at The Center and you are asked to bring a side dish or dessert and have some fun.
After all these years, the city continues the tradition of two old-fashioned holiday events that get more popular each year in our hometown:
Christmas Tree Lighting (Nov. 29th, 7 pm)
This is the 29th year, and it remains a true small-town celebration. It started when Women’s League members erected a tree on the courthouse square and served hot chocolate and cookies. A few years later it was moved to City Hall. It’s a time of holiday fun and music and events for the kids starring Jolly ole St. Nick. When the tall, beautiful tree on the second floor patio is lit, there is a feeling of goodwill that touches us all. And, it wouldn’t be the same without hot chocolate and cookies (also coffee).
Christmas Parade (Dec. 1st, 9 am)
This is what small town America is all about. Residents and businesses decorate floats and officials ride in convertibles down streets lined with people. The parade will travel from Caruth to Downtown Rockwall and once again, Jolly ole St. Nick will be there.
As always, we can depend on the great folks in the Parks & Recreation Department to plan exciting holiday programs for kids:
Christmas Cookie & Craft Decorating
Dec. 5, 4-6 p.m. at The Center, youngsters 3-6 will cut and decorate cookies and so much more. Cost for residents is $9.
Breakfast with Santa
Dec. 8 at The Center, it is one of our most popular events – there are limited tickets available for two breakfasts (8:30-10 am and 10:30-noon). A great breakfast and the chance to tell Santa what you want for Christmas. Mom and Dad, bring your cameras! Cost for residents is $9.
Gingerbread House Building
Dec. 12, 4-6 pm at The Center, candies are used to build their gingerbread dream house (for ages 3-12). Houses are already upright so just bring creativity, holiday cheer and a bag of candy to share with friends as you decorate. Cost for residents is $15.
What a terrific line-up for the entire family. Please join us for these special good times– it’s a great way to meet your neighbors and a sure bet for catching the holiday spirit.
By Rockwall Mayor David Sweet.
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