Market, parade highlights Damascus Christmas events

Just north of Johnson County, the Virginia town of Damascus is getting into the Christmas season with multiple events, plus its annual parade."Normally, it's kind of quiet, so we're every excited to have these things for visitors and residents to enjoy," Damascus Mayor Katie Lamb said. On Nov. 29, the town hosts "Dashing through Damascus: A Christmas Market" at the Damascus Old Mill Inn from 12 to 6 p.m."Sip, shop, and snap a picture with Santa. Enjoy handmade gifts, vintage finds, art, homemade treats, and more along with live music," the town stated. "Come soak up the Christmas spirit."Mayor Katie Lamb said there are so many vendors that it'll probably fill out Laurel Creek Park as well.Lamb said that there will be a dome filled with snowflakes and bubbles, like a snowglobe.The entire month of December, holiday lights will be visible all around Damascus.On Saturday, Dec. 5, Damascus hosts "A Trail Town Christmas Parade," starting at 7 p.m. in downtown, featuring a Parade Float Contest and the Damascus Loves Dogs Holiday Costume Contest."The parade will be led by the Clydesdales of Bart Long & Associates Realty and Auction, LLC. Santa will be at the Fire Hall after the parade," the town stated.On Dec. 13 is the Christmas Cheer & Charity Party at Appalachian Heritage Distillery & Brewery, from 5-9 p.m. with live music, a potluck-style dinner and collecting specific food items to help the Rhea Valley Elementary Backpack Program.Santa will be at Appalachian Heritage Distillery & Brewery on Dec. 13-16 and 23 from 7-8 p.m.Lamb says Helene kicked their tails, so this is a good way to show how Damascus has overcome, adapted and improvised, with more businesses coming into town.Jan. 1 will be the First Day Hike at Virginia State Parks. Outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to take part in a ranger-led hike or their own adventure at nearby Grayson Highlands State Park or Hungry Mother State Park. Parking is free that day.