North Augusta Kicks Off the Holidays with Sweet Cheer at Cookies with Santa Event
North Augusta was buzzing with excitement this past week as families gathered at Grace United Methodist Church for the much-anticipated Cookies with Santa event. Held on November 24, the festive gathering was a delightful way for the community to kick off the Christmas season, and it brought smiles to faces of all ages!
A Morning Full of Joy and Treats
As families streamed into the church, the aroma of freshly baked cookies filled the air. Attendees were treated to a variety of cookie options, including classic chocolate chip, sugary delights, and even gluten-free choices! Alongside warm cups of hot chocolate to combat the brisk November weather, there were plenty of hands on deck to help out.
Among the bustling crowd, parents watched with delight as their children participated in festive activities. Kids got creative, decorating gingerbread men and Christmas ornaments, while others enjoyed munching on cookies and sipping on hot chocolate. There was a palpable sense of community spirit as laughter and chatter filled the hall.
A Tradition with Heart
The event, organized by the church’s youth ministry, has become a beloved tradition over the years. Yolanda McCabe, one of the organizers, shared the heartwarming history behind Cookies with Santa. Originally designed for church families to capture a cherished photo with Santa, it has grown into a much larger celebration.
“This year, we decided to open it up to the community,” McCabe said, beaming with pride. “The last time we did this before the pandemic, we saw a wonderful turnout, and I expected to see about 200 families stop in this year.”
A Magical Experience for Everyone
Parents like Justin Inman and his daughter Emma were drawn to the event for its festive flair. “I thought this would be a really fun thing: decorating gingerbread men and getting to chat with Santa. It’s just magical,” Justin shared, watching Emma enthusiastically share her creations.
Lauren Vande-Stouwe, a relatively new member of the church, echoed those sentiments, bringing her little ones to experience the magic. “With Cookies with Santa, it is just a magical time for families,” she smiled, clearly enjoying the holiday cheer.
Weather Adds to the Festivities
While participants enjoyed the warm atmosphere inside, outside the weather took a cozy turn. Morning showers brought some drizzle, with a forecast predicting potential thunderstorms. Thankfully, the skies cleared up in the afternoon, creating a perfect backdrop for families to enjoy the festivities without the worry of getting caught in a downpour.
Residents were also advised to be prepared for gusty winds during the day, with highs expected to reach near 70°F. The community embraced the weather, wearing their best holiday attire, ready to share the joy of the season.
What’s Next for the Holiday Season?
As the event wrapped up, participants left with full hearts and sweet treats in hand, already looking forward to the next holiday event that Grace United Methodist Church will host. With smiles all around and Santa’s magic still in the air, it’s clear that North Augusta has officially kicked off the holidays in style!
As we continue to celebrate the season, events like Cookies with Santa remind us of the beauty of community connection and the joy of sharing special moments with family and friends. Here’s to more holiday magic in the weeks to come!
