Oh, what fun it is to spend the holidays in Van Alstyne! There is a sleighful of holiday activities in Van Alstyne, starting with the always jolly Holiday Hangout, 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. Expect a full afternoon of festivities starting with the Christmas Around the World Parade featuring brightly decorated floats rolling along Highway 5 from North Park to the festive fun at the Central Social District Park.
Holiday Activities in Van Alstyne
At the park, holiday activities for kids will include a giant igloo bounce house, a gingerbread slide, and train rides. The Grinch and Frosty the Snowman will be stopping by for pictures, along with Santa and Mrs. Claus who will be on hand to meet with children and hear their wish lists. There will also be a holiday market with gift items from local vendors.
Performances from the high school band and choir, Rogers Martial Arts, Certain Musi,c and Fierce Motions and Dance begin at 5:30 p.m. leading up to the lighting of the tree at 6 p.m., an always magical experience. Carols and cocoa will warm the hearts and bellies of those gathered around the tree.
The Grinch is back Saturday, Dec. 21, for the Grinch Gallop, a chip-timed race that begins and ends at Grayson College. Awards will be given to the first, second, and third-place male and female finishers for the overall and masters categories. There will also be awards given in 13 age group categories from 14 and under to 70 and older. All those completing the course will receive a Grinch Gallop finisher medal, a Grinch donut, and a race T-shirt. Register in advance or by 7 a.m. Dec. 21.
The Silver Spike Toy Drive is going on now and continues through Friday, Dec. 13. The Van Alstyne and neighboring Howe fire departments are in a friendly competition to see how many toys they can collect for Toys for Tots. Want to participate? Drop a new, unwrapped toy off at the Van Alstyne fire station, 280 North Preston.
Even More Holiday Fun
Residents of Mantua will discover even more ways to enjoy the holidays, including strolling along community trails to see holiday lights, spending the afternoon at the playground while Mom or Dad finishes wrapping gifts, or meeting with friends at the Veranda Community Center.
The greatest holiday fun might just be at home — especially if it’s a new home in Mantua. With open floor plans that invite holiday gatherings, these beautifully crafted homes are the perfect setting for family and friends looking to celebrate together. What’s even better is that several move-in-ready homes could have you starting off the new year in a new home that puts you exactly where you need to be to enjoy Mantua’s active lifestyle, family-friendly amenities, and inviting green spaces firsthand.
