Road Trips — By Apryl Chapman Thomas on November 26, 2009 at 10:16 pm
Filed under: Events, featuredarticle, holidays, things to do in the South

10 Events in the Southeast to Kick Off the Holiday Season

The turkey leftovers have been put away and the last relative has left. While you are not in the mood (yet) to take out your holiday decorations, you are ready to get into the spirit.

Luck for you there are many events happening around the Southeast to kick off the holiday season.

So, if you’re ready to get out of the house and ready to get into the holiday spirit, here are 10 holiday events that can help.

From storybook character to Santas from around the world to much more, Christmas Traditions in St. Charles, Mo., has activities that appeal to everyone. Kicking off Friday, November 27, the event runs through December 26.
Get a jump start on your holiday shopping (or pick you something for yourself for making it through Thanksgiving) at the 22nd annual Winter Wonderland Craft Festival in Hot Springs, Ark. Through November 28, the festival features well over 200 crafters.
Experience an old-fashioned Christmas at Landrum’s Homestead & Village in Laurel, Miss., November 28. In its 26th year, the event includes live entertainment, demonstrations, food, and arts and crafts.
Christmas on the River in Demopolis, Ala., is a week-long festival that kicks off on November 29. Not only does the event feature lighted floats on the river, but also a BBQ cook-off and candlelit tours of antebellum homes.
It’s a little bit of everything at Casey Jones Village’s Christmas Homecoming and Open House in Jackson, Tenn. Through November 29, the event includes everything from live entertainment to tastings to Santa Claus.
Put a little “oompah” into your holiday gifts when you go to Helen, Ga.’s Christkindlmarket. This German market, with gifts and foods, takes place on November 29.
Enjoy a Backcountry Holiday in Ninety-Six, S.C., on November 28. Activities include guided tours through a period-decorated log cabin, holiday music and children’s activities.
From the Festival in the Park to a boat parade the NC Holiday Flotilla is packed with things to do. The festivities take place on November 28.
Winter Trade Days at Fort in Richmond, Ky., highlights crafts and other goodies from the 18th century. Items are available for purchase during trade days on November 28-29.
Artists in Floyd and Montgomery County, Va., welcome you to their studios, November 27 – 29. During the self-guided (and free), see their works and others, while enjoying their hospitality.