Old fashion holiday spirit
Posted by Administrator on Nov 30, 2009
OLD WASHINGTON — Stepping away from the crush of modern holiday shopping venues, organizers of the 42nd Frontier Christmas in Old Washington, Dec. 5-6 are offering shoppers a look back in time and a variety of entertainment while they shop.
Greenery and wreaths with red ribbons are already adorning many of the shops and homes, giving Old Washington the picturesque look visitors have become accustomed to over the years.
On Sunday, with stores already setting out holiday items, early shoppers drifted in and out of several stores in the village.
“Stopping here is so much easier than fighting the parking and people at the shopping centers. They don’t have anything close to this in (the big department stores),” said Tracie Parish of Georgetown, Ohio, as she examined miniature angel pendants and antique bottles in the Strawberry Patch.
Her family was on its way home from Thanksgiving visits in Tennessee when they detoured to Old Washington for a break. Parish plans a return trip for Frontier Christmas.
“It sounds like fun,” she said.
During Frontier Christmas, taking a carriage ride down Old Main Street, tasting baked goods or hot cider while shopping are only a few of the activities visitors to the village filled with log style buildings can expect.
Old Washington, now part of Maysville, includes several museums and nearly 30 shops.
National economic trends have affected many vendors in the region, but Old Washington merchants are keeping a fire in the hearth and hopes high that unique merchandise and interesting shopping experiences will keep their season bright.
“There have been about 18 people in today,” said Goldie Dunaway as she tended a shop while the owner was away on Black Friday. “Frontier Christmas is always a fun time and the village looks so nice.”
A singing dulcimer player, (bag) piper, flutist and bell ringers are also scheduled to be playing as Kris Kringle and Mrs. Claus join in.
There will be candle dipping demonstrations at Mefford’s Fort and foods available at a variety of venues.
For shoppers, antiques abound along with collectibles and a variety of hard to find items for gifts with a personal touch; many seasonal sale items are available during the festivities.
New Beginning Church will be presenting “The Valley Haven Christmas Show,” at 2 p.m., Saturday and 4 p.m., Sunday at the 1795 Presbyterian Church. Sweet Funk, Honeysuckle Sounds, Douglas Webb, the Dulcimer Dames and Justin Bridges will also perform on both days at different locations throughout the village.
For more on Frontier Christmas, go to www.washingtonky.com
Contact Wendy Mitchell at wendy.mitchell@lee.net or call 606-564-9091, ext. 276.
