The weather cooperated and the rain held off long enough for the City of Summerville to present Christmas in the Park at Dowdy Park on Friday evening.  The event had to be postponed the week before because of the threat of severe weather.

A large crowd was on hand and children of all ages were able to enjoy the festive atmosphere and beautiful lights that lit up the park.  The City of Summerville’s Christmas Tree at the park was lit and Santa Claus was on hand for free pictures with children.

One of the highlights of the event was the annual “Christmas Cookie Smackdown” – an event that invites bakers to bring their best cookies for judging to claim the top honor.  The cookies are then distributed to first responders to enjoy for Christmas.  This year, Mrs. Ruthie Gross took home the top prize.

The Chattooga County Historical Society had the historic Couey House across from the Depot decorated for Christmas.  The Garden Club used live greenery to adorn the structure that is to believed to be one of the oldest – if not the oldest – residential home in the county, built in the 1830’s.   Members of the Historical Society were on hand to answer questions from the public about the historic old home.