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Burlington is gearing up for a festive day of holiday events on December 7, offering a variety of activities for residents and visitors. The day will culminate in the lighting of the Christmas tree, with Santa Claus, local Olympian Mariah Denigan, and her coach leading the ceremony.
The festivities begin with "Reindeer Games" from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Boone County Enrichment Center. Children aged 3-10 can enjoy games and crafts inspired by Santa's reindeer. This event is free and open to all.
From noon to 2 p.m., pet owners can visit "Santa Paws" at the Boone County Animal Shelter. Pets can meet Santa, and photos will be available for a small fee to support the shelter.
"Dinsmore: Christmas in the Country" offers tours of the decorated Dinsmore Homestead on both December 7 and 8 from noon to 5 p.m. Admission fees apply, with tickets priced at $10 for adults and $3 for children aged 5-15.
Music lovers can attend "Florence Community Band: A Christmas Festival" from 2-3:30 p.m. at the Boone County Public Library Main Library. This free event features performances of Christmas music.
The main event, "Christmas Tree Lighting & Festivities," takes place from 4-7 p.m. at Burlington Commons. Attendees can enjoy hot cocoa, photos with Santa, craft stations for kids, and live music by local bands. At approximately 6:30 p.m., Santa and Mariah Denigan will light the tree followed by fireworks.
Concluding the day's events is "Light up the Fair," running from 5:30-10 p.m. Visitors are invited to drive through two miles of illuminated displays at Boone County Fairgrounds until December 28. Tickets range from $7-$25.
