A special Christmas downtown

Seems like everyone has a tree-lighting ceremony, doesn't it? Sometimes it can be a real letdown too, if there isn't anything to do or see there after the tree is plugged in.

What is a family to do?

Well friends, worry no longer. Come to the Downtown Historic District to see Santa and the official lighting of the Fernandina Beach Christmas tree! This year is planned to be quite the spectacle with live music and various types of entertainment. The tree will be located at the west end of Centre Street near the river. The lighting will be at 6 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 24, but get there early to get close enough to see the festivities; the crowd is expected to be large.

What could be a better setting for a Christmas-tree lighting? The quaint old shops and buildings give a very special feeling this time of year, harking back to Christmas past.

So, bring the kids and be prepared for a special appearance by Saint Nick there, too!

Pajama party shopping day

Good grief! Did she forget to dress? How embarrassing!

Well, actually, this day - the Friday after Thanksgiving - each year is a hoot! People from all over the region come to shop in our downtown to take advantage of big discounts in each store. The catch: You must be wearing your pajamas to get the discounts!

Yes, it seems a bit awkward to wear your PJs around town, but since everyone else will be doing it, it becomes a very fun day! Do not miss this opportunity to have some real shopping fun, and catch serious bargains for this one-day per year.

Historic Helpers meet

As I mentioned last month, our new volunteer group is calling for volunteers to help the disabled and elderly here in the Historic District to maintain the exterior of their homes. Some of these folk have difficulty doing the yard work and painting to keep up these older homes.

Earlier this month, we had our very first meeting We had a chance to get acquainted, and learn the different skills each person can offer. If you know of someone who wants to help out, please contact me. Also, if you know of a needy property owner here in the district, let me know.