Granite Quarry’s Christmas at the Lake Lights Up Community Spirit
UPDATE: Granite Quarry’s annual Christmas at the Lake celebration just wrapped up, bringing festive cheer to families and residents on December 2, 2023. The event featured the highly anticipated lighting of the Festival of Trees, transforming the landscape into a dazzling display of holiday spirit.
Families flocked to Granite Lake Park to partake in the joyous festivities. Attendees were greeted by beloved characters like the Gingerbread Man and the Grinch, while children enjoyed lawn games and s’more making activities. The event also highlighted a competitive edge, with a house lighting competition sponsored by Select Realty and Nothing Bundt Cakes. The winner will receive a yard sign and a $100 gift card to enhance their holiday decorations.
In a heartwarming initiative, the town encouraged participation in Operation Christmas Spirit. This program assists families in need by fulfilling essential holiday requests. Granite Quarry Event Coordinator Debbie Loflin-Benge emphasized the importance of providing basic necessities, such as food and toiletries, stating, “We get a Christmas list from the family with what the family needs. They’re like ‘we need food. We need toilet paper.’”
Children had the opportunity to write letters to Santa, either dropping them in a town mailbox or sharing them directly with Santa, who was present for photos. The event saw the hard work of 15 volunteers and staff members, all dedicated to creating a memorable experience for the community.
The festive atmosphere was complemented by local vendors offering treats such as hot chocolate and candy apples, courtesy of Happy’s Farm, which also provided character costumes. A cozy firepit, sponsored by Novant Health, was set up for s’more making and warmth, making it a gathering spot for families.
The highlight of the evening occurred at 5:45 p.m. when the crowd gathered for the tree lighting ceremony. For the first time in Granite Quarry’s history, the main tree stood at over ten feet tall, adorned with brilliant white lights, standing out against the backdrop of numerous illuminated trees sponsored by various businesses and organizations. After remarks from Mayor Brittany Barnhardt, the trees lit up almost simultaneously, delighting the crowd, which clamored for photos and shared in the festive moment.
As the community came together to celebrate, the event not only showcased holiday spirit but also reinforced the importance of giving back during the festive season. Residents are encouraged to continue supporting local initiatives and engage with their neighbors as the holiday season unfolds.
Stay tuned for more updates and community events as Granite Quarry embraces this joyous season.
