As the holiday season is in full swing, many might be interested to know about upcoming, nearby holiday events. From Evans on Ice to Lights of the South, Augusta has several options for those looking to experience some community festivities.
Until Nov. 27, the Augusta Museum of History will feature a sweet scented, 3D holiday display of a gingerbread village created by a collection of local bakers, cooks, organizations and artists.
Located at 560 Reynolds St. in downtown Augusta, featured displays are detailed candy replicas of historical community locations, such as the Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art, the Aiken Train Depot, the Willcox, Noble Jones and the Sibley Mill.
According to Executive Director of the museum, Nancy J. Glaser, she believes the gingerbread village has become an important holiday tradition for many families, because of its delicious smell and creative premise.
“People just love that sweet smell when you’re looking at them,” she said. “I know I do too.”
The museum’s village is open and free to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday-Saturday, and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
MORE: Evans on Ice returns for the Holiday season
For a tree lighting ceremony from 3 to 6:30 p.m., Augusta will take over the city’s common area for a fun-filled day. Located at 836 Reynolds St., the event will include letters to Santa, a meet and greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus, train rides and the mayor’s Christmas card contest.
Entertainment will be performed by Richmond County’s elementary and middle school students throughout the event.
The Miller Theater:
On Monday, Nov. 28, the Miller Theater will be hosting the acclaimed holiday show “NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet” for its 30th anniversary tour at 708 Broad St., Augusta, Ga.
With theater doors opening at 6 p.m., the show will feature giant puppets, acrobatics, spectacular costumes and ballet performed by stars of Ukraine ballet.
To purchase tickets or for more information visit: https://millertheateraugusta.com/event/nutcracker-magical-christmas-ballet/
Later in the season, on Dec. 18, the theater will offer a “Cirque Music Holiday Wonderland” show at 3 p.m. The performance is a “world-class circus” talent infused with aerialists, acrobats and hilarious jokes.
To reserve tickets, visit: https://event.etix.com/ticket/online/performanceSale.do?method=restoreToken&partner_id=240&performance_id=5156560
Augusta University:
Starting off with an official tree lighting on Dec 1., Augusta University is partnering with Summerville Neighborhood Association and inviting all to join in a two decade tradition.
Occurring in front of the university’s Maxwell Theatre for free, highlighted activities will include photos with Santa Claus, caroling, writing letters to Santa and other crafts. Refreshments and food trucks, such as Luna’s Pizza Co. and Sheila’s Baking Co., will also be present for guests.
On Dec. 2 in the Maxwell Theatre at 7:30 p.m., the university will hold a Holiday Spectacular Concert to celebrate the Department of Music’s faculty, students and special guests.
According to the university’s website, the concert will feature traditional music and new classics across several genres, and proceeds will support music scholarships. Tickets will be free for university students and $15 for general tickets.
For more information, visit: https://calendar.augusta.edu/site/theatre/event/holiday-spectacular-concert-1/
MORE: Lights of the South to open for its 17th year
The Augusta West Dance Company will perform its annual production of “It’s the Night Before Christmas” at the theater on Dec. 10 at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.
The dance studio has over 40 years in the CSRA and the show will include over 60 dancers of various ages.
Tickets for public performances can be purchased directly from the Augusta West Dance Studio at (706) 860 – 0998 or visit their website at https://augustawestdance.com/christmas/
On Saturday, Dec. 17, Creative Impressions will present “Behold the Star” — a show aimed to bring the Christmas season to Augusta.
According to their website, the non-profit organization operates with a focus in promoting positive work and responsible behavior, and has supported “approximately fifty teenagers of diverse backgrounds that range from 12 to 18-years-old.”
Tickets for show will be $20 for general public and $15 for senior citizens, and can be purchased at https://www.creative-impressions.org/bts2022
As usual, on Dec. 10, at 6 p.m. the city will also host its annual “Augusta Christmas and Parade” to encourage hope and celebrate the season. This year’s parade, starting at the Augusta Commons at 836 Reynolds St., will feature floats, performances, and more.
For more information about the parade, call (706) 922 – 7411 or email: events@rmhcaugusta.org
Liz Wright is a staff writer covering education and general assignments for The Augusta Press. Reach her at liz@theaugustapress.com
