Most restaurants in the St. Cloud area will be closed on Christmas Day, offering limited options for dining out. Some of the area's restaurants will be open, providing limited choices for those looking to eat out.
Gary News & Updates
Stay informed about the latest events and activities in Gary
Wednesday, December 17, 2025
The Christmas Bird Count is scheduled for this weekend, encouraging participation in bird observation. While Homer may not have traditional Christmas birds, residents can still spot local avian life.
Snow was observed falling in New York near the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree on December 14th. A significant weather change could potentially impact hopes for a white Christmas.
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
A cat house in Marksville is all decked out in Christmas finery. It features lights and decorations, showing a love for the resident cats.
Sunday, December 14, 2025
The Vine Street Victorian Christmas Showcase has a rich history dating back to the autumn of 1986. Its origins are tied to a neighborly visit and a shared vision for a festive event.
Saturday, December 13, 2025
State Representative Vernon G. Smith of Gary is seeking volunteers and donations for the 37th Spirit of Christmas Giveaway. This event aims to support the community during the holiday season.
Christmas Day Inc. is providing free dinners at ten locations across Kankakee County. This initiative offers a holiday meal to those in need.
Local cartoonist Steve Nease presents a humorous perspective on current events in his daily cartoon. This particular cartoon focuses on a Christmas theme.
GRAMMY® Nominated Artist Lee Roy Parnell will perform a special evening of live music with a Texas "Flavored" Christmas theme. The event is at Love & War In Texas.
The Gary Sheppard Memorial Christmas Plate is a horse race scheduled for December 13, 2025, at Newcastle. This event is part of the horse racing calendar.
Weekend recommendations include Dolly Parton's Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol and a chapel concert by the St. Paul Ringers. Gary Neal Johnson is retiring from his role as Ebenezer Scrooge.
Friday, December 12, 2025
An initiative is underway to ensure Christmas cheer reaches all students at Gary Elementary this holiday season. Volunteers are working to bring the magic of Santa to students in need.
A $5,000-added Christmas Spectacular billiards tournament saw 128 entrants competing. Liang emerged undefeated in Stage 2 to claim the championship title.
The annual Pikeville Christmas Parade took place on December 6th in downtown Pikeville. The parade featured several first responders as it proceeded down Second Street.
A local parish hosted a holiday event that attracted 3,000 attendees, featuring choirs and cookies. The yearly event is a significant occasion for many, with some staying for hours to enjoy the festivities.
Thursday, December 11, 2025
The Mingle in Maysville event included visits with Santa Claus and offered Christmas crafts for attendees. Photo by Angela Gary captured the festive atmosphere.
City crews were busy last week putting up the city's Christmas street decorations. City employee Gary Carson was seen working on one of the installations.
Gary Carden will present an "old Christmas" program discussing many traditions at City Lights Bookstore in Sylva. The event is scheduled for Saturday, December 13th at 6 p.m.
The Lake County Clerk's Office has successfully raised funds and collected donations for the local nonprofit LovExtension. Clerk Gary expressed his warmth seeing the compassion shared to brighten someone's Christmas.
The Reedville Festival Chorale is set to perform a Christmas concert featuring members like Gary Woodford, Jim Leach, and Betty Gasper. Other performers include Linda Hornby, Melinda Floom, and Janette Jackson.
Taste of Country presents its Holiday Gift Guide featuring Christmas Albums from various artists. The guide includes both old favorites and new holiday projects from country music stars.
Wednesday, December 10, 2025
The Osthoff Old World Christmas Market in Wisconsin showcased unique holiday gifts, including warm hat fashions from Jully's Fashion Design. The market offered a variety of festive items for shoppers seeking holiday treasures.
Christmas concerts are coming soon, featuring performances by Saint Paul's Singers and the Mobile Pops. Director of Music Peggy Lyden and Gary Kohler of Mobile Pops discussed the upcoming holiday musical events.
Gary's Heating and Air featured their Cozy Christmas contest on the morning show '2nd Cup'. The segment highlighted community participation in festive holiday decorations and spirit.
A couple in The Villages is celebrating a Charlie Brown Christmas by decorating their home with Peanuts-themed displays. Carol Henson and Gary Kollath are showcasing their festive holiday spirit.
A delightfully spirited production of 'A Christmas Carol' is being performed at the Bowie Center for the Performing Arts. The cast includes Gary DuBreuil as Ebenezer Scrooge and Matthew Pauli as Christmas Yet to Come.
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
Rostraver Township is looking forward to its annual Christmas event, promising treats for attendees. Commissioner Gary Beck and Police Chief Scott Sokol are enthusiastic about the celebration.
Get into the holiday spirit with a collection of festive country Christmas songs. These classics are perfect for brightening your holiday season.
Enjoy classic Christmas movies on TV this week, from December 8th to 14th. With only 16 shopping days left until Christmas, it's time to get into the holiday spirit.
Monday, December 8, 2025
Valley Station held its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony, joining other cities in the area in celebrating the holiday spirit. The event marked a festive start to the holiday season for the community.
Plainfield hosted its Grinchmas on the Greens event, featuring a Christmas tree with Santa and the Grinch. The event offered a festive holiday gathering for the community.
Hundreds of dogs and their owners participated in a Christmas Dog Parade at The Valley in Evesham, Worcestershire. The event featured around 300 canines dressed in festive costumes.
Merry Tuba Christmas, conceived in 1974 in NYC as a tribute to music teacher William J. Bell, began in Columbus in 1982. The event honors Bell, who was born on Christmas.
Gary Piland has introduced his new Christmas stage play, "A Christmas Wager," in Topeka. The play explores themes of love, redemption, and community giving.
Merry Tuba Christmas, conceived in 1974 by Harvey Phillips, was established in Columbus in 1982. The event serves as a tribute to Phillips' teacher and mentor, William J. Bell.
Sunday, December 7, 2025
Christmas cheer has returned to Bethlehem as the city lit up a tree for the first time since the Gaza war began. This event marks a significant moment of holiday spirit in the traditional birthplace of Jesus Christ.
Columbia's Shelter Gardens is opening its popular holiday tradition, the Winter Wonderland Garden of Lights, on Friday evening. This beloved event brings festive cheer to the community.
The Amarillo Wind Ensemble will present a free Hometown Christmas concert this Sunday, December 7th, at First Christian Church. This event promises a festive evening of holiday music for the community.
Gary B's Music, under new ownership, is celebrating its anniversary with beautiful holiday decorations. The store features Christmas lights along its guitar wall and a full-sized Christmas tree.
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Pelham's Hometown Christmas celebration is back with a new parade route and expanded festivities under the theme “Sounds of the Season.” Former Mayor Gary Waters will serve as Grand Marshal for this year's event.
Christmas tree season is in full swing, with many people braving the cold to select their trees. Coles Turnpike Tree Farm in Whitney Point, NY, is busy with customers picking out their holiday trees.
The Cowboy Christmas event offers free entry, with all donations benefiting the Harrington Cancer Foundation. Photo sessions are also available, with proceeds going directly to support cancer patients in the Panhandle.
The New Depot Players are presenting a show titled 'Christmas Then and Now.' The cast includes Jada Graves, Meghan Usry, Aya Badr, Brandon Thomas, and Lana Hardy, with Gary Kapp directing.
St. John's Church in Joliet is hosting a Christmas gift shop and bake sale this weekend at St. John's Hall. The event will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both days.
The band The Darkness has released a reimagined version of the Christmas classic 'Mistletoe and Wine.' Their rendition adds a shoegazey spin to the beloved holiday song.
The Nutley Museum is hosting a Saturday morning of classic Christmas cartoons and films as part of The Gary and Zeny Erbe Old-Time Film Festival. This event features a selection of vintage holiday films.
The play 'A Christmas Wager' is set to debut next week, offering a touching family story. Playwright Gary Piland and director DJ Canfield shared details about the production.
Friday, December 5, 2025
Mayor Gary Singh and his family attended the City of Manteca Christmas tree lighting ceremony. The event marked the biggest Christmas celebration at the center.
The Festival of Lights officially kicked off Christmas in Canyon, bringing a festive spirit to the WT campus. Despite the chilly weather, the Christmas spirit was evident.
Santa arrived in Alden on a fire truck, distributing Christmas bells and candy canes to children. Gary and Jill Scheitler were among those present at the event.
The Tournament of Champions: All-Star Christmas has announced its semifinalists. This follows the conclusion of the quarterfinal matches in the latest episode.
J. Cooper, Gary Schutten, and Landon Qualls posed with the Scroll of Honor and the Christmas Tree of Remembrance. This is part of Cooper's Funeral Home's Christmas tradition.
A list of donors for the 2025 Peoria Journal Star Christmas Fund has been released. Gary R. Schupp was among the contributors to the fund.
Downtown Winchester is preparing to light up with Christmas spirit. The event, covered by Gary Scott, is scheduled for December 4, 2025.
Gary Perry from the city of Anderson was seen placing lights on the Christmas tree at Dickmann Town Center. Workers are busy preparing the plaza for upcoming holiday events.
Northwest growers are experimenting with new Christmas tree varieties due to drought concerns. Rows of evergreen trees were observed lightly dusted with snow.
Thursday, December 4, 2025
This behind-the-scenes video offers a glimpse into the recording session for the 2025 ABS-CBN Christmas ID. It captures the fun and warmth experienced during the creation of the holiday song.
The community gathered for a festive Christmas tree lighting ceremony held at the town hall. Local officials, including Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa, were present for the event.
The Christmas season officially began with a Breakfast with Santa event held in Wautoma. Attendees had the opportunity to visit with Santa Claus.
The Rockefeller Christmas tree lighting ceremony took place, marking a long-standing tradition that began in 1933. Construction workers initially put up a tree to celebrate the season.
The Kiwanis organization is supporting children through their annual Christmas shopping event. This initiative helps provide for kids during the holiday season.
Gary UMC in Wheaton will present 'Lessons & Carols' on December 14th. The church will also host Christmas Eve services on December 24th, including a family service and a traditional service.
H.C. Prange's advertisements and store windows were a significant draw for holiday shoppers. Each year, the store featured magical Christmas offerings that attracted customers.
Christmas lights in Tiverton, intended to resemble Christmas puddings, went viral for their shape resembling underwear. The decorations sparked amusement and ridicule.
Wednesday, December 3, 2025
Francis Viselli was seen dressed as Santa Claus, interacting with attendees at the Dickins Downtown event in Northport. This event brought Christmas spirit to Main Avenue.
Gary Herron helped decorate and showcase the Sheriff's SCAN Christmas tree, which features names of senior citizens wishing for Christmas presents. This initiative aims to bring holiday cheer to seniors.
Shoppers are exploring festive wares displayed in holiday-themed wooden huts at Christmas City Village. These huts are all adorned with Moravian stars, adding to the seasonal ambiance.
The Espanola Elks Hamper Fund has been a significant success, with Gary Tennant and his committee preparing to shop for items. These will be used to assemble hampers for Christmas feasts.
Area school-aged youth are invited to the Grizzly Basketball Christmas Camp, scheduled for December 29th and 30th. The camp will be held at the West Plains Civic Center.
The official White House Christmas tree has been unveiled and is located in the Blue Room. This year's tree honors Gold Star families and is decorated with ornaments representing each U.S. state.
King Charles III's charity is auctioning Christmas stockings made from the drapes of his Sandringham estate. These unique stockings were hand-stitched by a sewing circle at Dumfries House.
Christmas stockings crafted from the drapes of King Charles III's Sandringham estate are being auctioned for charity. A sewing circle at Dumfries House meticulously hand-stitched these special items.
Tuesday, December 2, 2025
State Rep. Vernon G. Smith is hosting the 37th annual Spirit of Christmas food and gift giveaway on Tuesday, Dec. 23. This event is a long-standing tradition for the community.
Monday, December 1, 2025
The 93rd annual Hollywood Christmas Parade is set to return, marking the start of the Christmas season. The event promises a star-studded lineup to celebrate the approaching holidays.
Sublette will host its annual "Christmas in the Village" event on December 4th, starting with a Christmas Walk at 5 p.m. A lighted parade will follow at 7 p.m., kicking off the holiday festivities.
Sunday, November 30, 2025
Gary and Mary Bell have revealed their 2025 Christmas light display, marking Gary's 39th year setting up the festive decorations. The home is located across from the local park.
The Glen Gary Christmas Tree Farm has been a family tradition since 1985, with David Fearn and his father planting the first trees. They are now getting into the holiday spirit for the season.
Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus waved from a wagon during the Plymouth Holiday Gathering Christmas Parade on Friday, November 28, 2025. The event featured 'miles of smiles' for attendees.
Saturday, November 29, 2025
An Evening of Christmas Readings and Carols will feature performances by Gary Forney and Dianne Neiswonger. The event also includes the Adult Choir directed by Brandis Kreider.
A Christmas Celebration Concert is being held to raise funds for the Fort Kids Children's Museum. The event will feature live performances by singer-songwriters Gary Baker and Lenny LeBlanc.
The Woodland Opera House is staging a vibrant production of 'A Christmas Carol.' Gary Giurbino plays Scrooge, and Nathan Uebelhoer takes on the role of Cratchit in the show.
Gary Hite owns and operates Scioto Prairie Farm, a Christmas tree farm located in Marion. The farm is open for customers to select their holiday trees.
Experts suggest that real Christmas trees will be a more affordable option in 2025 compared to artificial ones. This is due to rising prices and tariffs affecting artificial tree imports.
A Christmas tree farmer provides essential tips on selecting the perfect real Christmas tree. The first week of December is highlighted as a busy but ideal time for purchasing.
Friday, November 28, 2025
The new Publix Christmas advertisement has been released, featuring a young girl and sleigh bells. The ad includes imagery of Santa Claus appearing through clouds.
The Evergleams on Eighth event, featuring a spectacle of aluminum Christmas trees, is entering its 10th year. This display aims to spread holiday joy in Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
Thursday, November 27, 2025
The annual Parade of Christmas Trees is now on display. Photos of the event were captured by Gary Nelson.
Christmas is coming to uptown Jefferson City with a 36-foot tall tree. The event is part of the holiday festivities.
The popular show 'Call the Midwife' is returning for a two-part Christmas special on BBC. The special will feature characters dealing with dramatic situations during the holiday season.
Dordt University will host a Wind Ensembles Christmas concert on Friday, December 5. The concert will take place in the B.J. Haan Auditorium.
Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Stage North Theatre Company is set to present 'A Nutcracker Christmas'. The production features actors portraying dolls that need to be rewound.
A Christmas tree named 'Christmas in the Canyon' fetched a record winning bid of $420,000 during a TriState Health fundraiser auction. The unique tree was welded by community college students.
Uptown Bayonne will hold its Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at Morris Park on Monday at 6 p.m. The event is located at 967 Broadway near 45th Street.
Tuesday, November 25, 2025
A special titled 'A Very Carillon Christmas' starring Gary Sandy, known for 'WKRP in Cincinnati,' is airing multiple times this week. The event is associated with Carillon Park and Dayton History.
The Salvation Army of Columbia held its annual Christmas parade against poverty downtown on Sunday. Hundreds of people attended the event aimed at raising awareness and funds.
Christmas decorations that were stolen from Kernville's Circle Park have been returned following community outcry. Gary Ananin, president of the Kernville Chamber, was involved in the situation.
A new raw meat dog food store has opened, featuring Christmas-themed items for pets. The offerings include dog advent calendars, Christmas Eve treat boxes, and potential presents like beds and coats.
The Chana United Methodist Church will host its annual Candlelight Christmas event on Saturday, December 6th. The event is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. at the church located at 606 N. Main St. in Chana.
Monday, November 24, 2025
Jutta and Gary Hughes won the bidding war for a Christmas tree at the annual Festival of Trees. The winning bid reached a record $420,000 during the fundraiser auction held at the casino.
Smith also organizes the Spirit of Christmas Dinner in December. This event continues the legacy of Gary's Harvest Feast.
The Tilbury Christmas craft fair is now open and will continue until 4pm. Visitors can expect the event to start winding down around 3pm.
Sunday, November 23, 2025
The Columbia Christmas parade against poverty is a free event welcoming all attendees. Members of Mizzou Gymnastics and the ShowMe Brass Band will be featured in the parade.
T.G. Sheppard and Kelly Lang have teamed up for a new song titled 'Tender Tennessee Christmas'. The song is a rendition of a beloved Christmas classic originally written by Amy Grant and Gary Chapman.
A Bacchus production of 'A Christmas Carol' is stirring hearts with its message of redemption. The show encourages audiences to sing carols and participate by making ghostly wails when spirits appear.
Christmas has officially arrived in Kirkby with the annual light switch-on event. Hundreds of people gathered in Kirkby town centre for this free festive celebration.
Saturday, November 22, 2025
Jacksonville is showcasing a variety of Christmas light displays, ranging from programmable pixel lights to classic blow molds. Some of these dazzling displays feature an impressive number of lights, offering festive holiday cheer.
Thieves have stolen equipment intended for the Christmas Tree lighting event in Kernville, disrupting the community's holiday festivities. Residents are shocked by the theft, and the community is rallying together in response.
The City of Kingston will host its annual Christmas Parade on Monday, December 1, 2025, starting at 7 pm. There is no charge to enter a float, with parade lineup beginning at 5:30 pm.
Christmas in Tecumseh is returning with a variety of holiday festivities, including a parade and family-friendly activities. Attendees can enjoy a petting zoo, public skating, and horse-drawn carriage rides.
Looking for a fresh approach to holiday decorating this year? Consider drawing inspiration from the past for your Christmas decor. This segment offers vintage ideas to refresh your seasonal style.
Join 'A Holy Grounds Christmas' for an evening of Christmas music and joy, featuring ANCHORED Worship. Attendees can sing along to favorite Christmas hits while enjoying Christmas coffee and treats.
T.G. Sheppard and Kelly Lang have released a music video for their rendition of 'Tender Tennessee Christmas.' Sheppard noted that revisiting the classic song, originally penned by Amy Grant and Gary Chapman, was an easy decision.
Friday, November 21, 2025
The talking Christmas tree named Douglas Fir is back at Disney Springs in Walt Disney World. This festive character first appeared in 2023 and is now a returning holiday attraction.
A Christmas mural generated by AI in Kingston upon Thames has drawn attention for its unsettling imagery. The scene depicts a crowded holiday gathering with peculiar and concerning elements.
The latest episode of Tournament of Champions: All-Star Christmas featured two intense first-round battles. This installment was a brisk 90 minutes, bringing viewers closer to the final matches.
The Scott Woods Band is set to return to Killarney for a special Christmas Hoedown event. The band is known for its lively performances, with members playing a variety of instruments.
Gary Lightbody's iconic Snow Patrol guitar is being auctioned at the Cash for Kids Mission Christmas Gala Ball. The event is a charity auction aimed at supporting children during the holiday season.
Thursday, November 20, 2025
Madison Hose Company #1 will be assisting Santa Claus with toy deliveries to local children next month. This annual tradition helps spread holiday cheer throughout Madison.
The Gary Police Department is enhancing holiday patrols to combat impaired and aggressive driving during the busy travel season. This initiative aims to ensure safer roads for residents and visitors.
The Heisey Museum is holding its annual Christmas Bazaar on November 22nd. Attendees can purchase commemorative items like Clinton County Afghans for holiday gifting.
The Spencer Theatre is presenting a rendition of 'A Christmas Carol' this weekend, with shows scheduled for Saturday and Sunday. Gary Neal Johnson is featured in the production.
Wednesday, November 19, 2025
An event is being held to raise funds for the Mission Christmas Appeal 2025, featuring a live charity auction. The evening promises festive glamour and heartfelt giving.
A museum is displaying nativity collections to remind people of the true meaning of Christmas and help them embrace the Christmas spirit. The general store is also part of this initiative.
The community Christmas tree lighting ceremony is scheduled for November 28th. This event will also feature the Yuletide Sampler and will honor local art teacher Gary Wolff.
Tuesday, November 18, 2025
As the nights get darker and colder, Christmas is rapidly approaching. London offers a wide array of festive activities to enjoy during the holiday season.
Monday, November 17, 2025
Bryan White will be performing at the Decatur Civic Center for a Christmas event. This concert is part of the holiday festivities in Downtown Decatur.
The Parkside Christmas light show, a beloved tradition for 16 years, has been retired by its owners, MaryAnn and Gary Martin. The display was located at 1132 Parkside Circle and ran from Thanksgiving into the holiday season.
The Los Altos Players are presenting a retelling of the classic 'A Christmas Carol.' Directed by Kristin Walter, the production features a cast including Marc Berman, Jacob Crosson, Kristin Hall, Kristin Hill, and Gary.
Grammy Award-winning songwriter Gary Baker and artist Lenny LeBlanc performed at a Christmas Celebration benefiting the Fort Kids Museum. This event helped boost support for the museum.