"Deck the Falls"  in which Ruby Falls has been magically transformed with an array of enchanting lights and sound effects, with a light show at the waterfall and holiday music in the cave. For more information visit www.rubyfalls.com. Rock City's Enchanted Garden of lights runs nightly from 6 - 9 p.m.  The light extravaganza features 25 holiday scenes and nearly a million lights. Enjoy Carolers, hot chocolate and Music Under the Moon entertainment. For more information visit www.seerockcity.com.

For something completely different. the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum in Chattanooga invite you to enjoy a trip to the North Pole pulled by a steam locomotive. "The North Pole Limited"  includes refreshments, storytelling, caroling, visits by Santa Claus and other surprises. For more information call 423-894-8028 or visit www.tvrail.com.

Going to the theater  is another wonderful Christmas tradition that can be fun for all the family.

This year the Tivoli Theater start their holiday season on December 1st at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.  when the Chattanooga Boy's Choir will present their 45th Annual "Singing Christmas Tree." Featuring music from ten different regions of the world, with a tapestry of musical styles and wonderfully decorated stage. For more information call the Boys Choir office (423) 622-3033.

For those who enjoy a little culture, another holiday favorite, Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker" will be presented by the Chattanooga Ballet and Chattanooga Symphony Orchestra at the Tivoli Theater on December 7-8 at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday December 9 at 2:00 p.m. Sugar plum fantasies and snow covered dreams come true with this full length production. For more information call (423) 265-0617.

On December 12, at 7:30 p.m. the Tivoli Theater invite you to  feel

the true Christmas spirit with songs and carols at the "Jim Brickman Holiday Concert." This year's musical homecoming will feature Lonestar frontman Richie McDonald who collaborated with Jim Brickman on a new holiday song "Coming Home For Christmas."

For more information call (423) 642-TIXS

Another fun way to feel the spirit of Christmas is to take a cruise down the scenic Tennessee River on a Southern Bell 'Christmas Carol Dinner  Cruise.'  Prime Rib and Shrimp Creole will be on the menu. The singing deckhands promise to get everyone started singing Christmas carols. There will also be live entertainment for dancing or easy listening, and of course, Santa won't want to miss this cruise. For this month's schedule and more information call
(423) 266-4488 or (800)766-2784.

The Gem Theater in Etowah will be presenting  "The Homecoming" by Earl Hammer on December 1,6,7 and 8th at 7:30 p.m. with weekend matinees on December 1, 2, 9, at 2:30. This heartwarming Christmas story is based on the author's own childhood growing up in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia during the Great Depression. The play is said to "take us back to a simpler time, without the materialism and pace of the modern world, and where the things that really matter in life, the love and support of family and friends are found in abundance." For more information call 423-263-3270.

Festive lights and displays of Christmas are at their best now at Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Travel around in the comfort of your own vehicle or take a guided trolley tour.  For more information call Gatlinburg Welcome Center at (865)436-0535.

With all the activities planned around the region whether they be at churches, schools, businesses, theaters, tourist attractions or in your own home, it should not be difficult to feel the warm, cozy, loving spirit of Christmas.
Wishing a very joyous Christmas to all our readers.
.