Seasonal events in Goochland

Even though it seems like the Fourth of July was only last week, Goochland starts celebrating Christmas this week.

Bethlehem Walk begins its twelfth season on Wednesday, December 2 at the Broad Street Road campus of Salem Baptist Church, a few miles west of Centerville. An evocative tour of first century Bethlehem brings the meaning of Christmas to life as you walk the streets of the town at the time of Jesus’ birth. This free event is outdoors and takes about 45 minutes, so dress for the weather. The terrain not suitable for wheelchairs, however, “motorized chariots” are available. Hours are: December 2, 6 – 9; December 3, 6 – 9; December 4, 6 – 10; December 5, 4 – 9; and December 6, 3 – 8. (See http://salembaptistchurch.info/bethlehem-walk-details-schedule/ for details.)

Goochland’s Community Christmas Tree lighting and holiday celebration will be held on Friday, December 4, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Goochland Sports Complex, on Sandy Hook Road near its intersection with Fairground Road in Courthouse Village. The tree will be lit; a certain elf type who favors red suits will put in an appearance; and a good time will be had by all.

Centerville Fire-Rescue Company 3 will hold its annual Santa Breakfast on Saturday, December 5 from 7:00 to 10 a.m. at its station located at 52 Broad Street Road in Centerville. Company 3 volunteers will prepare and serve a free breakfast. That fellow in the red suit will be available for consultation with all good children. Come enjoy breakfast and get to know the folks who save lives and protect property in our community every day.

Field Day of the Past opens its grounds on Ashland Road, north of Broad Street Road, on Saturday December 12 from 4 to 8 p.m. to thank the community for 25 years of fun. Take advantage of this free event to stroll through a simpler time in Goochland . Peek inside buildings from yesteryear that were moved to the show grounds decked out in holiday finery. See how the season is celebrated in a log cabin. The post office will be open for children to draft letters to Santa. This will all take place beneath the giant star.

These savors of the season remind us that Goochland is a special place.