With Thanksgiving behind us, it's now time to turn our eyes to the next holidays on the horizon. The big one for most Newton County residents will be Christmas, and if the reports from this year's Black Friday are to be believed, people are already out in force shopping.

Christmas is coming - fast - but don't get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season that you forget to take some time to relax and truly enjoy the holiday season.

Porterdale will be hosting their annual lighting of the star on Tuesday evening, and Santa and his reindeer will be paying a visit. Porterdale is also featuring a Christmas tour of homes on Dec. 8 and the annual TUBACHRISTMAS concert on Dec. 11. We encourage anyone seeking some holiday merriment to attend either of these events.

Social Circle will be hosting their tree-lighting ceremony on Dec. 3. In addition to performances by local choirs and a hayride, Santa Claus will also be present to ask the good boys and girls what they want for Christmas.

Many of our local churches will also be hosting events leading up to Christmas. See our community calendar on Page 7B or visit covnews.com to see what's coming up, and feel free to submit your own events to be published.

We want to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season.