The holiday season is becoming more evident in Barrhead with each passing day. The snow is getting deeper and the nights are getting colder. The Christmas lights are becoming ever brighter, and more lawn decorations are making their grand debut.
The bulbs on the Tree of Hope, which is part of the fundraising efforts of the hospital to purchase a new gastroscope, have started lighting up too.
Over the weekend a wave of Christmas events took place, and the community really took to getting in the spirit.
The Festival of Trees is a prime example of holiday enthusiasm. The Christmas Market at the elementary school attracted a whopping 600 to 800 people. Some came to shop amongst the dozens of vendors, which offered everything from knit and crochet goods, to scented candles and handcrafted jewelry, to kitchen supplies and warm socks.
Meanwhile others just came to mingle with friends and show their support for friendly community faces.
The music and entertainment showed off how truly talented this area is. Footworks Dance Academy is always a hit, showing off their skill and attracting a crowd. There was never a silent moment in the gym either, whether it was the soft soothing sound of a choir, or a solo guitarist getting people bopping about.
The Christmas Gala was also extremely successful, welcoming 280 people and raising twice the money they did last year.
The market and gala may have been more for adults, but there were fun happenings around town for children too. Santa made his grand appearance on ice Sunday during the Barrhead Agrena's Skate with Santa event.
It wasn't hard to miss the bright red suit against the white ice, or the large crowd of children following behind. They giggled and pointed, and he waved back with a smile.
Moms and dads set their kids to pose with Santa too. While some skated towards him at top speed for a bear hug, some smaller children stared in awe at the white-bearded fellow.
As Christmas grows closer, the festivities have only just begun. Soon the community will be graced by several school Christmas concerts, which always prove to be an enjoyable evening out.
