The Spencer-Penn Centre is bringing the holiday spirit to life with its inaugural Christmas Extravaganza on December 13. The large-scale event, designed to spread festive cheer, will feature a variety of activities for families, local vendors, and live music.
“It’s going to be a great evening of Christmas fun,” said Susan Sabin, the center’s executive director. Inspired by a conversation with the board president about their shared love for Christmas, Sabin said the event aims to revive holiday traditions once celebrated at the old school.
The festivities will include free photos with Santa Claus, a long-standing tradition at the center. “We’ve always done something with Santa, and it’s been so well received,” Sabin said.
The evening coincides with the center’s monthly music night, featuring the Country Boys, who will perform at 6:30 p.m. in Alumni Hall. “They can come listen to the music and grab their dinner,” Sabin added. Concessions, including hot dogs, will be available for purchase.
Families can also shop for holiday gifts, as more than 20 local vendors will set up booths. Offerings will range from Tupperware and handcrafted holiday items to jewelry and other locally sourced goods. “It is mostly individuals selling made items, locally sourced items,” Sabin said.
To accommodate parents, a daycare area will be set up in one of the classrooms, where children can enjoy crafts and snacks while their family shops.
The center will also host a blood drive during the event, starting at 4 p.m. Donors will receive a gift card as a token of appreciation from the organizing organization.
Sweet treats and hot cocoa will be available for purchase from Sugar Shack Sweets & Treats.
One of the event’s highlights will be Spencer-Penn’s first-ever tree lighting ceremony. “People will get to see our Christmas tree out on the courtyard for the first time,” Sabin said.
The lighting will follow a Christmas tree decorating competition, where local businesses will vie for the top prize. Competitors include Lawless Welding and Wills on Wheels. The winning business will receive a deluxe sponsorship package for 2025, which includes their name on event flyers and other marketing perks.
The Christmas Extravaganza runs from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Admission is free for the public, though a $5 donation is required to enter the music night. Food and music admission are cash-only, but many holiday vendors will accept cards.
The Spencer-Penn Centre is located at 475 Spencer Penn Road, Spencer, Virginia.
