Great attendance was reported at all the Christmas weekend events in Salem.
An estimated 300 began the weekend on Friday at the Christmas Carnival at the Salem Community Center playing a number of activities put together by businesses and organization. Santa’s arrival on Sweney Corner, which was the highlight of Saturday’s Christmas on Broadway brought out more participants than ever before. Salem Recreation Director Jed Casburn watched the block long line to meet Santa and then receive a free toy.
“Santa’s very popular right now. We’re very pleased, and we had a really good toy drive today, so hopefully all the kiddos get some good toys. We’ve had a lot of organizations help us, and we’ll get their names out. We just appreciate all the help. We couldn’t do it without them.”
The SCHS Choir performed Christmas Carols, Mrs. Claus was across the street at the Salem Historical Museum and free hot chocolate and smores were handed out in the outside patio of the ABC Lounge.
Both performances for the Salem Community Band and Chorus at the Salem Theatre on Friday and Saturday night sold out.
About 80 toured the Bryan Birthplace Museum on South Broadway for its Christmas Open House. Historical Commission member Jim Koehler says it was a successful night.
“There’s been a lot of work by a lot of individuals to get this done again. We really appreciate Quinn Realty opening up the old library building for refreshments where people can stay. We’ve been working to get it all decorated and do the best we can,” Koehler said. “People get to learn a lot about William Jennings Bryan and the Bryan family and get to meet a lot of people who are related to William Jennings Bryan.”
Mrs. Bryan and their three children were all in period dress to explain the life of the William Jennings Bryan family.
In Centralia, the Christmas Stroll was held on Friday. The sponsoring chamber was pleased with the turnout.
SCHS Choir performs Christmas carols. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Families pick out toys at Christmas on Broadway. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Refreshments being served during Christmas festivities. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Mrs. Claus at the Salem Historical Society. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Salem Community Band performs in Christmas concert at the theater. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
