“CHRISTMAS IN THE WOODS” DESIGNED TO PROMOTE UNITY THROUGH  COMMUNITY 

The Parks & Recreation Commission for the City of Lower Burrell invites you to  “Christmas in the Woods” to be held December 14 from 2-5 PM at Kotecki Park in  Lower Burrell. This first-year event is designed to promote unity through  community in the true spirit of Christmas. 

The family-friendly event is open to everyone of all ages and will include food,  events, and activities. 

Highlights include Christmas carolers; a candy cane hayride; live nativity  animals; Santa Claus; food trucks; a Christmas Marketplace; historical  storytelling; a smores campfire; a bake sale; children’s and adult crafts and  activities; a 50/50 raffle; free family Christmas photos; and a skillet toss  competition. 

“We wanted to create an enchanting, immersive experience in the woods that  hearkens back to a time when the focus was on the joy of the season, gathering  with community and giving back, said Debbie Kurtik, secretary of the Parks &  Recreation Commission who is directing the project. “It’s also about  strengthening the bonds within our local community and connecting with people  beyond our boundaries.” 

Several Lower Burrell churches also will be participating in or contributing to the  event. 

In keeping with the Christmas spirit of giving, the Commission is asking  attendees to donate one non-perishable food item, which will be given to a local  church food pantry. 

Toys for Tots also will be present and accepting unwrapped gifts for children. 

On-site parking will be available, and the event will be handicapped accessible.  Attendees will be greeted by guides at each entrance with a directory of event  offerings. 

The third annual light-up parade will follow at 7 PM along Leechburg Road,  starting near Community Market and culminating at Stewart School for the  lighting of a Christmas tree and singing of Christmas carols. 

Be sure to follow the Commission’s Facebook page  

@LowerBurrellParks&Recreation for ongoing updates.