New Carlisle welcomed Christmas last Saturday, December 5, with several downtown holiday festivities.

The fog that morning prevented Santa from flying in from the North Pole, forcing him to arrive via ground transportation for the annual parade down Main Street. Participants in the parade could not be seen until they were up close, as the heavy fog did not lift until later in the day.

Councilman Ethan Reynolds invited residents downtown that afternoon to help him decorate the city Christmas Tree by bringing their own ornaments to hang. Reynolds said between 12 and 15 people showed up to decorate the tree, noting that he hopes that more will participate next year, as this was the first year doing so.

The fog returned once again that evening, just in time for the official Christmas Tree lighting ceremony. This event was also the brainchild of Reynolds, who is a die-hard Christmas fan. The Tecumseh High School choir performed at the ceremony, just before City Manager Randy Bridge flipped the switch and illuminated Main Street with the soft glow of warm Christmas lights.

On behalf of the New Carlisle News, we wish you and your family a happy and healthy holiday season!