Christmas is coming to Weirton’s Main Street Saturday

WEIRTON -- It's the countdown to Christmas in Weirton.

Christmas on Main Street, organized by the Weirton Festival Committee, is making its return from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday, with activities in and around the Millsop Community Center.

"This is the fourth year," Assistant City Manager DeeAnn Pulliam explained. "It keeps growing."

The festival will feature an afternoon of activities, including ice skating, train rides, inflatables, LED mini golf, live entertainment, and approximately 50 area vendors, as well as appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus, culminating with the lighting of the community Christmas tree and a fireworks display.

Activities kick off with a welcome address at 1 p.m., followed by performances at 1:15 p.m. by the Special Olympics Cheer Team; Victorian Carolers at 1:45 p.m.; Casey Sisters Dance Academy at 2:15 p.m.; Dance by Hillary at 3:40 p.m.; Deja Vu and Two Friends Trio at 4:15 p.m. and 5:45 p.m.; Weirton Christian Center Signs of Hope at 5 p.m.; and the St. Paul Church Choir at 6:40 p.m.

Organizers noted all activities are free to the public.

"I think that's the greatest thing about it," Parks Director Coty Shingle said.

In keeping with the spirit of giving, the festival committee and the City of Weirton have organized a food and toy collection to benefit the Salvation Army. Non-perishable food items and toys may be taken to the Weirton Municipal Building, Weirton Fire Department headquarters and Gilson Avenue stations, Millsop Community Center and Mary H. Weir Public Library through Dec. 1.

In addition, residents can help to "stuff" a police cruiser and fire truck by bringing their food and toy donations during Christmas on Main Street.

Visitors also will have a chance to view the entries in the second-annual Gingerbread Contest, which includes approximately 40 registered participants. Judging will be done prior to the festival in the categories of Business, Group Effort, Adult and Youth.