As the leaves begin falling and the temperature begins dropping, it’s almost time to unpack winter coats and start holiday shopping. There are so many ways to kick off the holidays, and what better way to celebrate than with community events that will have you and your family feeling a little extra cheery?
Deep River Waterpark
If you’re looking for a way to get active after Thanksgiving, look no further than Deep River Waterpark’s ice skating rink. Weather permitting, the rink will open Nov. 24 at 12 p.m. The rink will be available for open skate Thursdays through Sundays, and it is available to rent for birthday parties or other group celebrations.
To celebrate the return of the ice rink for the 2023-2024 season, Deep River will be hosting several special skate events, including “Skate the Soundtrack” nights every Friday from 4-8 p.m. Soundtracks include “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” “White Christmas,” “Star Wars,” Disney hits, and more.
“It's a really charming ice skating rink and you don't have to compete for space like you have to do at some of the other spaces. There's the pizzeria, and we'll have snacks and hot chocolate available. We're trying to make it a really special night out whether or not you're skating, so then you'll be able to enjoy these tunes that bring back special memories,” said Kara Mackey, assistant superintendent of special facilities and recreation.
For the family members who know Taylor Swift lyrics all too well, celebrate New Year’s Eve in style at Swifties on Skates—a night where skaters can celebrate the new year with hits from Taylor Swift’s discography, make friendship bracelets, and participate in a toast at 8 p.m.
Deep River County Park
Soak up the sights and sounds of the Region’s history during Christmas at the Mill at Deep River County Park.
The event will run from Saturday, Dec. 9 through Sunday, Dec. 10, and attendees can enjoy Region-specific chestnuts roasting on an open fire, tour the historic grist mill, and shop local at the park store for gifts made with love.
“This is an opportunity for people to come in and get their maple syrup, their apple butter, or their homemade candles and shop local to get the yummy goods that are otherwise not available during this time of year,” Mackey said.
Bellaboo’s
Visit Santa every Saturday in December at Bellaboo’s from 12-3 p.m., or help send Santa out to deliver presents on Saturday, Dec. 23, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The Santa Sendoff is the perfect way to get prepared for Christmas festivities and gives parents the chance to make ornaments, grab some cookies, and write any last-minute letters to Santa before the holiday.
“If you haven't written the letter yet or if you don't have a plate of cookies ready to go, it's a one-stop shop for being prepared for Christmas Eve,” Mackey said.
Ring in the new year at noon during the annual Bellabration, where kids can participate in tons of new year festivities while still making it home in time for an afternoon nap. Be sure to stick around for the balloon drop at noon and take advantage of the many activities offered during the event.
Whether your kids are one or feeling 22, there’s something for the whole family at Lake County Parks & Rec. To learn more about the full winter schedule, click here.
To learn more about Lake County Parks & Rec, visit lakecountyparks.com.
