Big crowds were on hand for several Christmas activities in Salem over the weekend.
The Salem Recreation Department and Marion County YMCA organized a Friday night game night and Saturday activities on South Broadway.
Recreation and YMCA Director Jed Casburn says more than 300 attended the game night which included activities put together by several groups and businesses.
A full afternoon of activities followed on Sweney Corner and the 100 block of South Broadway on Saturday.
“We started off with a movie. We had Santa come in at 3:45 and we had a crowd waiting on him, that’s the first time we have seen that. Hot Chocolate and Smore’s station at the ABC. I’m just pleased with everything today, and the food trucks, it takes a community that is for sure.”
Every child in attendance got to pick a free toy from Santa’s sleigh. Chris Watkins of Saved with Amazing Grace says once again those in the community came through.
“Probably had over 100 toys and this is one of the bigger turnouts in terms of toys. It started off like everything here, starts off slow but seems like the day of the event or day before we always have enough.”
The day ended on Saturday with the second and final performance of the Salem Community Choir and Band Christmas program. Debbie Woodruff was pleased with the sellout crowds for the community band which has now grown to 50 and the choir to 40.
“We had full ticket sales for both nights and great crowd participation and reception. We had a wonderful event and it was great fun.”
Woodruff says the growth of the band and choir required a four-foot stage extension for the conductor in order to get both groups on stage. A collection taken up at the concerts on Friday and Saturday nights raised $2,500 for the Salem High School and feeder grade school music programs.
The Evergreen Christian Church added to the holiday spirit with its drive-through live nativity scene on Saturday and Sunday nights.
Friday night game activity at the Salem Community Activity Center. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Hot Chocolate Station at the ABC. Brandy Drenckpohl back left), Kendra Herman (center) and Tabitha Meador (front right) served up the free drinks.
The Christmas tree is lit on Sweney Corner. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Andrew Steininger conducts the community band and chorus at the Saturday night Christmas program. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
