By Bobby Tingle

The ‘Holidays’, that time between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day with Christmas in between, have officially arrived for 2015. Family gatherings, parties and special community events can keep a body pretty busy. But in case you haven’t heard hear are a few events you should consider.

Caring and sharing are a big part of the holidays. Granger Chevrolet will have their 6^th Annual Can Drive December 3 to benefit Orange Christian Services and Salvation Army. Later on that day you can take part in Toy Coffee at First Presbyterian Church put on by The Service League of Orange and Salvation Army. That evening don’t miss “The Light of the World” a Christmas program at Bridge City High School benefiting the Bridge City/Orangefield Ministerial Alliance. Two days later the LCM Education Foundation will host a Beary Merry Christmas at Little Cypress Elementary benefiting teachers and students of the school district. Breakfast with Santa is scheduled the same day at Chili’s to benefit CASA of the Sabine Neches Region. A week later on Friday the 11^th drop by the Southeast Texas Hospice and make a donation at the Toilet Paper Tea.

Christmas trees always brighten the holiday with festive decorations and plenty of lights. Friday night on February 4^th you can see the Tree Lighting at Orange City Hall. Then on Sunday the West Orange Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration will take place in the city’s community center. Christmas Strolls at Shangri La begins December 10 featuring trees decorated by community organizations.

The Kiwanis’ Club of Orange, 67^th Annual Orange Christmas Parade, will take place Friday, December 4^th. The theme this year is “The Magical Music of Christmas”. A Christmas Laser Show will follow the parade at Stark Park. In Bridge City the Chamber of Commerce’s 7^th Annual Christmas Light parade will take place Saturday, December 5^th.

North Orange Baptist Church will present Village of the Nativity on Friday and Saturday, December 11^th and 12^th. Beginning Thursday, December 10^th you can see Yuletide IV a production of Orange Community Players, Inc. with performances on Friday and Saturday also. Sunday evening, December 13 at Trinity Baptist Church you can enjoy STORY-TIME, a Christmas play at either six or seven thirty. On December 21^st at LCM High School auditorium The Kiwanis Club of Orange will host the show “Passport to Wonder” for your family’s enjoyment.

Watch our Area Calendar published in every issue of The Orange Leader for more. Enjoy your holiday season and spread some joy to others.