The all-volunteer Christmas in Crestwood group has planned a variety of activities and programs designed to entertain residents and visitors alike this holiday season, including a Holiday Tree Decorating Contest that begins today and continues through Dec. 25.
Ninety-six Crestwood businesses are preparing to put up decorated trees for the contest, and residents are invited to visit the participating businesses to view and rate the decorated trees. Ballots are provided at each location, and each one serves as an entry into a weekly drawing for a prize basket filled with goods and services all donated by area businesses. Most baskets are valued at more than $600.
On Saturday, Dec. 3, Santa Claus will arrive at noon at the Government Center, 1 Detjen Drive, to visit with children until 2 p.m. The first 175 children will receive a goody bag with items donated by local businesses.
Guests are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items to support the Prince of Peace Food Pantry, which serves neighbors in need, and/or bring a new unwrapped toy for “Toys for School Kids,” which also provides gifts for children in need.
After Santa’s visit, the celebration will continue at Watson Auto Care Plaza, 8750 Watson Road, with the first Christmas in Crestwood Car Show sponsored and hosted by Fairway Automotive from 3 to 7 p.m. Besides cars, motorcycles will be on display and food and drink specials will be available. The day’s activities will end with a fireworks display.
On Sunday, Dec. 4, the fourth annual Nite of Lights — Give and Glow Celebration will take place from 5 to 8 p.m., kicking off at 5:20 p.m. on the grounds of the historic Sappington House, 1015 S. Sappington Road. Luminaries will be placed along Grant’s Trail from Big Bend Boulevard to Watson Road in honor of veterans.
Proceeds from the event benefit the Missouri chapter of USA Cares, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to help military families in crisis.
“We love our community and have so enjoyed planning ways to not only bring color and cheer to Crestwood for the holidays, but also bring businesses and people together through these community events,” Sue Bremehr, founding member of Christmas in Crestwood, stated in a news release. “We are excited to expand the celebration with colorful banners welcoming people to Crestwood.”
Another new component of the holiday celebration is the “Your House Looks Great” Door Hanger Blitz scheduled for Friday, Dec. 16.
Five area churches have agreed to help go door to door from 5 to 7 p.m. that day and gift residents with a special door hanger thanking them for decorating their homes and helping to make Crestwood beautiful for the holidays.
Afterward, Prince of Peace Lutheran Church on Sappington Road will open its doors to all volunteers as a place to gather for hot chocolate and fellowship. Crestwood residents will want to be sure their lights are on by 5 p.m. that day, according to the release.