Weekending Christmas Style

We have lived in our area for about 8 years. The town we came from is much smaller than where we live now. There is not much to do there. I don't say that in a bad way but it simply is much smaller with not many options of things to do. Living here provides us with much more things to do especially when it comes to family friendly things. Around the holidays there is always something going on. With many little surrounding cities there is always some sort of festival or celebration. Always new places to explore. So this weekend we got in the holiday spirit and ventured out.

In a town over there is a huge carnival called Sights and Sounds. It is a Christmas carnival with food tents, rides, and a stage with live entertainment. Local children's choirs and groups singing carols and such. There was an ice skating rink (which is a big deal considering the weather is warmer here). There was a town of Bethlehem and a petting zoo. There was Christmas music blaring through speakers as you walked through the park. So many things to do and eat!

Hubby has to shoot baskets at every carnival we go to. Its his thing.

Then the next day we we drove out to a town about 30 minutes away. This one has become a tradition for us, as we have gone the past 4 years. It is a walk through trail of lights. It is free! (donations are asked for) There are various light displays that you navigate through. Santa was there to sit and take pictures with. Every year a bonfire is set up to roast marshmallows and make smores. Hot chocolate is offered as well! There are so many cutout options for photo stand ins. Every year we have gone with different people. Sometimes family sometimes friends.. sometimes both. We always enjoy it.

Middle dude could have stayed at this display all night! Peanuts is a favorite around here.  

And I have a feeling this is how all of our Santa picture attempts are going to go this year. Middle dude was super nervous. Oldest dude talking Santa's ear off with his long list. And little dude.. well just not feeling it all. Lol..Memories though right?

This month seems to be flying by! Only three weeks left till Christmas is such a crazy notion to me. Where has this year gone?  Looking forward to some more memory making and tradition keeping over the next few weeks!