Celebrating the holiday season with friends and family is one of the best things about this time of the year. The days are full of friendship, beautiful decorations and happiness. There are opportunities all over Fayetteville and the surrounding area to share this joy and excitement with the community and loved ones.

On Dec. 10, the Rotary club hosts its annual Christmas parade. From 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., floats of all kinds will drive through downtown Fayetteville. The route goes from Person Street to the Market House to Hay Street to the train station. The Rotary Club began hosting these Christmas Parades in 1999. It stepped things up when it looked like the tradition was going to end. The very first parade had 50 entries, but with the support of community members and local businesses it has grown to more than 100 floats. This parade is not a fundraiser; instead, it is a community service project with the goal of spreading joy for the holiday season. For more information, visit http://www.rotarychristmasparade.com/history.php. 

Another fun Christmas event is the Fort Bragg Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. On Dec. 1, from 5:30 p.m. until 7 p.m., the Main Post Parade field will be full of holiday spirit. The giant Christmas tree is lit and the parade field filled with fun Christmas activities. This is a family-friendly event that includes a Kidz Corner and the opportunity to meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Light refreshments will be available as well as holiday entertainment. For more information, visit www.bragg.armymwr.com.

On Dec. 2, Santa Claus will make an appearance at the family-friendly Christmas in the Mill Village event. From 6:30 until 9 p.m. on Trade Street in Hope Mills the shops will be open late and full of Christmas spirit. This is a perfect time to get some holiday shopping done or to enjoy some free entertainment with friends and family. There is an entire line up for entertainment and street vendors will be available as well. Don’t forget to participate in the special contest.

On Dec. 16, there will also be some Christmas fun at Milton E. Mazarick Park. From 5 until 6:30 p.m. the public is invited to participate in Nature Christmas Ornaments. This event is intended for all ages and it allows everyone to unlock their Christmas creativity. Event admission is $3, but participants make a unique Christmas ornament using objects found in nature. Reservations are required and the designated meeting place is the Mazarick building. Snacks are provided. For more information visit www.fcpr.us. 

On Dec. 3, the Town of Hope Mills will host its Christmas parade. It begins at 3 p.m. The route is from Hope Mills Middle School to South Main Street  to Main Street and then ends at Rockfish Elementary School. This parade represents small-town Christmas celebrations at their finest. They are full of community spirit and joy. The parade is open to the public and this is a family friendly event.  For more information visit http://www.townofhopemills.com/350/Christmas-in-Hope-Mills.