Santa's Village

In December of 2006, the city of Lampasas implemented a new Christmas program called "Santa's Village and Trail of Lights" which generated a tremendous amount of interest and support from the community. Last year, the majority of the Christmas decorations, store fronts and displays were constructed by the city's Parks and Recreation Department, due to the deterioration of the existing Christmas decorations that were used for many years.

We feel the 2006 Santa's Village and Trail of Lights program was a huge success and wish to make this year's program even better.

The key to the continuing success and expansion of this program not only lies with the city but the community and local businesses. We have the ability to develop a Christmas program that can attract visitors to Lampasas from the surrounding counties, as well as the entire state.

This would be a perfect opportunity for local businesses to set up their own Christmas displays or sponsor an area with your business name displayed as an advertising tool. We also have an approved Christmas decoration book that would allow businesses or individuals to pick out their own displays if they choose.

With the multitude of electrical outlets available in Brook Park, vendors or businesses would have a perfect venue to sell goods, arts and crafts, or even refreshments and food as part of this Christmas program. Last year, we had many businesses, citizens and individuals choose to contribute money for new decorations. We would like to extend this invitation to all businesses and citizens once again.

Non-profit organizations also could participate by serving as official welcoming groups while selling concessions and seasonal crafts. We have slots still available for non-profits and local businesses from Dec. 10-23, but make your reservations now.

Last year, we received more than $2,000 in donations for Santa's Village and Trail of Lights and hope to raise even more funds this year. If you would like to be a sponsor, donate money or participate in the 2007 Santa's Village and Trail of Lights, please contact me at the Parks and Recreation Department at 734-1076.

By working together we can make a difference in our community and, in the process, make the 2007 Christmas season a special time for the kids. Thanks for your participation.

Monty Blackmon Parks and Recreation director