The Christmas season is in full swing in Columbia, with holiday events taking place all over town. Longtime favorites are returning, and several new activities are joining the lineup.
Festivities begin Friday with Columbia Nights. Local shops will remain open until 8 p.m. for holiday shopping, offering a variety of unique gift items for anyone. Adair County Tourism representatives will be on the square beginning at 4 p.m. handing out hot chocolate to shoppers while the school choirs perform Christmas carols.
Christmas in Columbia will be held Saturday, and is packed with activities for the whole family, including two new vendor events.
Adair County Elementary School will host local vendors and crafters from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is $5, with children 12 and under admitted free. All proceeds will support new playground equipment for the school.
The Adair County Fair Association will host Christmas on the Grounds at 205 Industrial Park Rd. from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Local vendors, artists, and crafters will be set up inside the barn and outside under the pavilion.
Santa will visit the Trabue-Russell House, 201 Jamestown St., from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Families are encouraged to bring a camera for photos. The historic home will be decorated for the season and includes a display of vintage toys. Sweet treats will be served while Bobby Lee performs holiday music on the piano.
Warm up with all you can eat chili at Columbia Masonic Lodge, 501 Burkesville St., for only $10. The chili cookoff from noon – 2 p.m. is a fundraiser for the Valley of the Cumberlands Demolay.
The annual Columbia Christmas Parade will begin at 5 p.m., traveling from Industrial Drive down Jamestown Street, around the Public Square, and exiting onto Burkesville Street.
This year’s theme is “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.”
Natalie Bardin, FBLA state president and a senior at Adair County High School, will serve as grand marshal.
Floats, vintage cars and trucks, the ACHS Marching Band and alumni, Lindsey Wilson University’s Marching Band, and Raider Bob will participate. Prepare for lots of candy to be given during the parade.
There is no entry fee for parade participants. Entries will be accepted through today by calling 270-384-6020 or emailing coladair@duo-county.com.
Entries opting to be judged will compete for cash prizes and bragging rights.
Prizes include:
In-county floats: $300 for first place, $200 for second, and $100 for third.
Out-of-county floats: $200 for first and $100 for second.
Non-float entries: $100 for first, $75 for second, and $50 for third.
Visitors can also enjoy Christmas lights at the city parks. Christmas in the Park on Doc Walker Rd. features a drive-through with displays created by local businesses and organizations. Veterans Memorial Park on Ky. 55 south of Columbia and Citizens Park on Burkesville Street are also decorated for the season.
Paige Nickel, director of tourism, encourages businesses, residents, and neighborhoods to take part in the first Christmas Lights Decorating Contest. To participate, visit the Chamber of Commerce at 201 Burkesville St. and pick up a QR code sign to display. Community members can scan the code to vote.
Winners will be announced Tuesday, Dec. 23. The first-place prize is $500.
With traditions, new celebrations, and festive lights shining across town, Columbia is embracing the spirit of the season. Organizers encourage everyone to come out, support local businesses, enjoy the events, and make lasting holiday memories with family and friends.
By Amy Pike
amy@adairvoice.com
