By Tameka Kenan-Norman, City of Rocky Mount NC
A winter tradition returns to Rocky Mount in December. Holiday Happenings officially kick off December 1, 2017 at 6pm with First Friday and the lighting of the Imperial Centre Christmas tree. Guests will be able to enjoy carriage rides, explore the Children’s Museum and Science Center, hear live music, participate in arts and crafts and see Santa Claus. While the event is free, some activities may cost a nominal fee.
“We are very excited about our holiday events this year,” says Sheila Long, recreation services supervisor for the Imperial Centre. “There really is something for everyone.”
The man in red will make an appearance at the 62nd annual Rocky Mount Christmas Parade December 3, 2017 starting at 3pm in downtown Rocky Mount. Guests will not want to miss the floats, marching bands and fun. Ed Crump of WTVD/ABC 11 will be this year’s grand marshal. For more information on the Christmas Parade, visit www.downtownrockymount.com.
The holiday fun returns to the Imperial Centre on December 10, 2017, 1-5pm, with Winter Wonderland. Entry to the winter event is free and includes activities, indoor snow, music, carriage rides and a visit from the North Pole’s favorite resident, Santa Claus. Children and adults alike can take part in the festivities.
The Imperial Centre Theatre will also host two holiday favorites this season back to back. The 49th-annual Christmas Chorus and “A Charlie Brown Christmas” take the stage November 30-December 2, 2017 at 7:30p.m, and December 3, 2017 at 2pm.
The Rocky Mount Senior Center will also host a variety of holiday activities including the 17th-annual Christmas Gala on Tuesday, December 5, 2017, 11am-1pm, at the Benvenue Country Club with guest emcee, comedian Bubbah Dickens. The event will also include live music from James Parker and The Electric Image Band. The annual Christmas Lights Tour will be held on Thursday, December 14, 2017, 6-9pm.
For further information on the senior center’s holiday activities, call 252.972.1561.
For more information on the Imperial Centre’s Holiday Happenings, call 252.972.1266, or visit www.imperialcentre.org.
