Santa Claus arriving for the Christmas tree lighting in Cedar Springs last Saturday, December 2. Post photo by J. Reed.

By Judy Reed

We had great weather here in Cedar Springs last Saturday, December 2, to welcome Santa Claus to town. And a lot of people enjoyed the day-long events that took place before the big man made his entrance in the parade.

“A Cedar Springs Christmas weekend 1—Mingle with Kris Kringle—went over quite well,” said Perry Hopkins, president of the Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce. “The library had over 100 people attend their crafts to start the event off. Story time with Mrs. Claus and Cousin Shannon was a hit for the children as well. “

Hopkins said that the children loved the petting zoo and bake sale provided by Double K Farms and Animal Junction. The CS HS Choir performed while people were waiting for the parade to start.

More people marched or drove in the parade this year, which brought Santa from the fire station to the corner of Ash and Main, in a horse-drawn carriage.

Calvary Assembly of God presented their live nativity before the tree lighting. Post photo by J. Reed.

Calvary Assembly of God once again did a live nativity scene, and then Santa and Mayor Gerald Hall did a countdown to light the tree. Afterwards, children and their families were invited to follow Santa over to the American Legion where they could color a picture, write a letter to Santa, or have hot chocolate, while they waited to visit with Santa and get a photo taken. Baked goods were also available for sale.

The Christmas tree after it was lit at the corner of Ash and Main Street. Post photo by J. Reed.

Hopkins said that photos that were taken during the daylong event will be available on the Mingle with Kris Kringle event page on Facebook. 

The fun continues this weekend with the Kent Theatre Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 9 from 3-5 p.m., and the Kent Theatre Christmas Dance Extravaganza on Sunday, December 10, from 3-5 p.m. Admission is $3 for each show.

The indoor live nativity at Sand Lake United Methodist will take you through the town of Bethlehem on the day Jesus was born, with actors of all ages dressed as various characters. Courtesy photo

By Judy Reed

Shepherds from a past nativity. Courtesy photo.

If you’d like to experience a fun family activity to celebrate Christmas that’s a little different this year, head to Sand Lake and experience the entire town of Bethlehem on the day Jesus was born through their live nativity.

The event will be held at Sand Lake United Methodist Church this weekend on Friday, December 1, from 6-8 p.m., and Saturday, December 2, from 1-3 p.m. in the church’s fellowship hall.

As you walk through the nativity, actors will reenact the story. You will see shepherds watching their flocks; soldiers registering people for the census; people peddling wares; angels singing; wise men searching for the Christ child; Mary and Joseph and the baby Jesus. Real live animals will greet you, and a real baby will play the part of Jesus. Visitors can also enjoy hot chocolate and cookies in the courtyard area.

This is the 5^th year for the event, which was originally created and put on by South Ensley and Sand Lake United Methodist Churches, and now includes cast members from many of the village churches and even some that aren’t members. 

“The program takes about 30 people and we love having visitors,” said Sandra McConnell, who decorates and does publicity for the nativity. She said over 100 people walked through the live nativity last year, and they are hoping for more this year.

McConnell said that they got the idea for the live nativity when they saw one in Coopersville several years ago. “We went through it, and decided we wanted to do something like that,” she explained. Little by little, people came forward to help to make it into the event it is today. “We’ve added a lot in the last four years,” she added.

If there is anyone else who would like to be part of the nativity, you can call Sandra at 616-570-8713. 

Looking for some holiday cheer? You don’t want to miss the “Mingle with Kris Kringle” event this Saturday, December 2, put on by the Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce. 

The day-long event starts with make and take crafts and ornaments at the Cedar Springs Community Library at 107 N. Main St from 9-noon. You can also enjoy a story time with Mrs. Claus from 2-3 p.m. at Perry’s Place llc for herbs, teas, and more at 90 N. Main St. There will also be a meet and greet and photos with the Cedar Springs cheerleaders, a petting zoo, bake sale, and caroling from the Cedar Springs High School choir, all before the mini-parade that brings Santa to the corner of Main and Ash Street at about 4:30-4:45.

Following the parade will be a live nativity scene by Calvary Assembly of God and mingling with Kris Kringle at the American Legion Hall, where kids can get their photo taken, and do an activity while they wait. 

The fun then continues next weekend with the Kent Theatre Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 9 from 3-5 p.m., and the Kent Theatre Christmas Dance Extravaganza on Sunday, December 10, from 3-5 p.m. Admission is $3 for each show. For more info on both weekends of fun, see ad on page 10.

Dec. 16: Rockford prepares for first Live Nativity. Area residents and guests are invited to join in celebrating our Savior’s birth at the first “Live Nativity and Christmas Caroling Celebration” to be held in downtown Rockford. The event takes place on Friday, December 16 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. at Speed Merchants Bicycle Shop. Those wishing to be a part of the caroling event are asked to meet at North Rockford Middle School or Rockford Baptist Church at 6:45 p.m. to walk down E. Bridge Street to the nativity. Please bring a battery operated candle, flashlight, or your cell phone to carry as you walk. A petting zoo for the children and refreshments will be available for all at Rockford United Methodist Church. Additional information can be found at www.rpmoll.com/Christmas.

December 18, 24, 25: The Springs Church invites you to each Sunday at 10:30 am throughout December for our message series A Child Is Born as we unpack some of the most significant birth stories in the Bible to discover how we can be born again. The Springs church is also excited to invite you to our outdoor musical light show in our parking lot!  The Christmas Light Show will run nightly from sundown to 8:30 pm, December 2-23. Our Christmas Eve Candlelight Service will be held on Saturday, December 24 at 7 pm. This special family service will help you connect and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Kids are welcome to wear their pajamas and will get their own glow sticks! On Christmas morning at 10:30 a.m. we are offering a shortened family service with Scripture readings and Christmas carols. Kids can come in their pajamas!

Please join us!  We are located at 135 N. Grant St., Cedar Springs (Corner of Oak & Grant).  For more info on any of the events happening at The Springs Church this month visit our website www.thespringschurch.info.

Dec. 18: Hillcrest Community Church will hold an all church Christmas Program entitled “Worth the Price,” on Sunday, Dec. 18, at 10:45 a.m. It is a special program for all ages filled with the joy of the season. Music and singing and laughter, a true celebration! On Saturday, December 24 at 7:00 p.m. we will hold our Candlelight Christmas Eve Service. Come and worship the new born King! The true Christmas story with your favorite carols. Great night for the whole family! Then on Sunday, December 25 at 10:45 a.m., Christmas morning worship! He’s finally here! Come and adore Him! We are located at 5994 18 Mile Rd, Cedar Springs, MI. For questions please call 616-696-9333.

December 24: Calvary Assembly of God invites you to our annual Candlelight Christmas Eve service at 6:30 p.m. Join us for Christmas carols, a special story for kids, and an inspiring look at the meaning of Christmas. We meet in Red Hawk Elementary school on the Cedar Springs Public School campus (204 E. Muskegon)—just follow the arrows. For more info, check out our Facebook page or cscalvary.org.

Dec. 24: Crossfire Church, 4780 Cornfield Drive, Cedar Springs, will hold their Christmas Eve Candlelight service on December 24, at 7 p.m. Special guest artist Kenny Hass will perform. No service December 25.

Dec. 24, 25: Cedar Springs United Methodist Church will hold a Christmas Eve Candle Light Communion Service at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 24, and a Christmas Worship Service at 10:15 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 25. The church is located at 15671 Algoma Avenue NE, Cedar Springs.

December 24, 25: East Nelson UMC, 9024 18 Mile Rd. NE, welcomes you to a Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 7 p.m. on Dec. 24, then welcomes you to Christmas Carols and Lessons at 9:30 a.m. on Christmas morning, Dec. 25.

Dec. 24, 25: Solon Center Wesleyan Church invites you to our Christmas Eve Candlelight Service to be held Saturday, December 24, from 6-7 p.m. We also welcome you to join us for a Christmas day service at  10 a.m. as we once again celebrate the birth of Christ! The church is located at 15671 Algoma Avenue in Cedar Springs, just north of 19 Mile Rd. For questions please call 616-696-3229 or find more info at www.scwchurch.com.

Dec. 24, 25: St. John Paul II Catholic Church will hold two services on December 24, a Vigil Mass of Christmas at 5 p.m., and at 10:00 p.m. Mass During the Night of Christmas. On December 25 they will hold two services, 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.: Mass During the Day of Christmas. St. John Paul II is located at 3110 17 Mile Road NE, Cedar Springs, MI 49319. If you have any questions please call 616-696-3904. All are always welcome!

Dec. 24, 25: Rockford Springs Community Church would like to invite you to join us for our Christmas Eve Candlelight Service on December 24 at 9:00 p.m. and for our Christmas morning service on Sunday, December 25 at 9:30 a.m. RSCC is located at 8515 14 Mile Rd., Rockford, MI 49341. For questions please call the church office at 616.696.3656

Dec. 24, 25: Holy Spirit Episcopal Church will be celebrating Christmas Eve with a traditional worship service and Eucharist on Saturday, December 24 at 7 p.m. On Christmas Day, Sunday, December 25, we will have Morning Prayer at 10 a.m. All welcome. We are located at 1200 Post Drive NE, Belmont, at the corner of Pine Island and Post drives, just west of Exit 95 of US 131.  Please visit our website at www.holyspiritbelmont.org.

Area residents and guests are invited to join in celebrating our Savior’s birth at the first “Live Nativity and Christmas Caroling Celebration” to be held in downtown Rockford. The event takes place on Friday, December 16th from 7:00-9:00 p.m. at Speed Merchants Bicycle Shop. Those wishing to be a part of the caroling event are asked to meet at North Rockford Middle School or Rockford Baptist Church at 6:45 p.m. to walk down E. Bridge Street to the nativity. Please bring a battery operated candle, flashlight, or your cell phone to carry as you walk. A petting zoo for the children and refreshments will be available for all at Rockford United Methodist Church. Additional information can be found at www.rpmoll.com/Christmas.

Santa parade, tree lighting and more next Saturday, December 3 

Are you ready to have yourself a merry Christmas Cedar Springs-style? Come on out and experience a day of goodwill and cheer on Saturday, December 3, when the Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce presents “Come Mingle with Kris Kringle.”

The day will start at 10 a.m. with families able to make and take Christmas ornaments at the Cedar Springs Library from 10-1, then do kids crafts at the Cedar Springs Historical Museum from 1-3 p.m. You can also enjoy a story time with Mrs. Claus from 2-3 p.m. at Perry’s Place llc for herbs, teas, and more, all before the mini-parade that brings Santa to the corner of Main and Ash Street at about 4:30-4:45.

Following the parade will be a live nativity scene, tree lighting, caroling, and mingling with Kris Kringle at the American Legion Hall.

Bring the whole family out on Saturday, December 3, for a fun, community Christmas celebration! See the Chamber advertisement here for complete details on times and locations.

Hometown Happenings articles are a community service for non-profit agencies only. Due to popular demand for placement in this section, we can no longer run all articles. Deadline for articles is Monday at 5 p.m. This is not guaranteed space. Articles will run as space allows. Guaranteed placement is $10, certain restrictions may apply. You now can email your Hometown Happenings to happenings@cedarspringspost.com please include name and phone number for any questions we may have.

Holiday Market

Nov. 26: The Tri County Music Boosters is hosting a Holiday Market on Saturday, November 26^th at Tri County High School, 21338 Kendaville Rd., Howard City, from 10 am to 4 pm. Over 30 of your favorite vendors will be on hand offering specials for the holiday season on their unique items! Why fight the crowds in the malls when everything you could want can be found right here! Admission is only $2.00 and includes a raffle ticket of over two dozen fantastic door prizes. #47p

Sand Lake Tree Lighting & Carols

Nov. 27: There will be a Tree Lighting and carols in Sand Lake at Salisbury Park on Sunday, November 27^th at 5:30 pm. Meet at the tree on the southeast corner of the park. Special music from Resurrection Lutheran Church Preschoolers. #46,47p

Praise the Lord at Cowboy Church

Nov. 27: 2^nd Chance will be having Cowboy Church on Sunday, November 27^th at 6 pm. It will be at 2^nd Chance School at 810 – 17 Mile Rd. Cedar Springs (corner of 17 Mile and Olin Lakes Rd). The message and music will be shared by the group Riding for the Brand. Invite your family and friends. Cowboy Church will be every 2^nd and 4^th Sunday of the month. Each service will have different people sharing God’s word and music. Cowboy Church will introduce you to 2nd Chance and its vision. The school is in the building stage, which when completed, will teach troubled teens through God and the horse. If you have questions, call 616-293-2150. See you there! #47

Indoor Live Nativity

Dec. 2,3: Sand Lake United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall is transformed into the city of Bethlehem for an indoor live Nativity on Friday, December 2^nd from 6 to 8 pm and Saturday, December 3^rd from 1 to 3 pm. See the baby in the manger and listen to the angels sing. Our free gift to you this Christmas. #46,47p

Annual Cookie Walk

Dec. 3: St. Peter’s Ladies Guild’s Annual Cookie Walk will be Saturday, December 3^rd at 310 E. Division in Rockford from 9 am until the cookies are gone. The cookies are sold by the pound and you pick the combination. This is the perfect time to pick up cookies for the holidays. Proceeds help our Mission Projects throughout the year. #47,48p

Vendor and Craft Show

Dec. 3,4: The Rockford American Legion, 330 Rockford Park Drive, is hosting a Craft and Vendor Show on December 2^nd from 5 to 9 pm and December 3^rd from 9 am to 4 pm. Lunch will be available for purchase. #47,48p

Holiday Marketplace

Dec. 3: Get a good start on your Holiday Shopping at the Greenville Area Senior Citizen Center, 715 S. Baldwin, Greenville, during their Holiday Marketplace event, taking place on Saturday, December 3^rd from 9 am to 3 pm. Choose from a nice selection of quilts, crafts, dolls, holiday décor, gift items and baked goods, along with unique gift options from outside vendors. Entrance and free parking is in rear of building. Holiday Marketplace is part of a citywide holiday celebration. #47

Chalk Artist and Ventriloquist

Dec. 4: Chalk for Christ artist and ventriloquist, Rod Snow will present an entertainment show the whole family can enjoy, Sunday, December 4^th at 4 pm in the sanctuary of the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church. Please join us for an afternoon of fun! There is no charge for this event. #47,48p

Help Promote Literacy

Dec. 5,16,20,28: The need is urgent at this time! The Literacy Center of West Michigan has scheduled  information sessions for prospective volunteer tutors. These sessions last one hour. It allows persons interested in becoming volunteer tutors to find out more about the Literacy Center and its programs. At the end of the session there will be a chance to sign up for tutor training. Sessions are Monday, December 5^th at 10 am, Friday, December 16^th at 2 pm, Tuesday, December 20^th at 6 pm and Wednesday, December 28^th at 10 am. By training people to be tutors, the Center can offer one-on-one reading help to adults asking for assistance in reading or English as a Second Language (ESL). You do not need to speak another language to tutor ESL. The Literacy Center of West Michigan is located at 1120 Monroe Ave., NW, Suite 240, Grand Rapids. Please call 616-459-5151 (ext. 10) or email us at info@literacycenterwm.org to register. #47

HCNC Holiday Party

Dec. 9: The Howard Christensen Nature Center staff, board and volunteers would like to invite you (everyone) to our annual holiday party at the Center! Unlike the previous years potluck style dinner, this one will have a light faire provided with samplings of cider, wine, juice and pop! No need to bring anything, however HCNC always appreciates holiday donations. Mingle with those who make this place happen and get to know us a little more! FREE to all, but donations are appreciated. The center is located at 16160 Red Pine Drive, Kent City, 616-675-3158, www.HowardChristensen.org. #47

By Judy Reed

The annual “Mingle with Kris Kringle” in downtown Cedar Springs gets a little bigger every year, and is starting to become a tradition for families in the community.

Last Saturday’s event, sponsored by the Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce, was a day-long affair, and kicked off with about 40 kids and adults showing up at the library to make decorations to hang on the tree. Perry Hopkins, who organized the event for Chamber, said there was also a great turnout for the story time with Mrs. Clause at Perry’s Place llc for herbs, teas and more, and the Christmas Puzzle time with Santa’s Elves at Alpha Omega Coffee and Games.

There was one glitch—the parade started a half hour late because Santa was running later than expected. But on the bright side, the parade had more participants this year, with the American Legion walking in it, and the cheerleaders leading Santa. Mayor pro-tem Pam Conley also walked in the parade, and helped Santa with his countdown for the tree lighting.

The Red Flannel Queen and Court mingled with residents near the tree, while waiting for Santa, and there was also a petting zoo, and a live nativity by Calvary Assembly of God Church.

The Cedar Springs Historical Society held a tour of the museum after the tree lighting (see page 2).