Tribune staff

The Ironton Business Association's annual Christmas parade was held last night, and as always it was a well-attended event.

The parade, however, is just the beginning of a host of fun Christmas activities coming up. Here are just a few that are taking place in upcoming weeks.

Candlelight Christmas Walking Tour, "The Spirit of Christmas," 5 p.m. Saturday, First Baptist Church in Ironton:

for approximately two hours, Boy Scouts will lead participants on a tour while the the Ohio University Activity Band provides the musical entertainment. Refreshments will follow at the Lawrence County Museum.

Lunch with Santa, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at

sponsored by West Ironton Kindergarten. Children young and old alike will have the opportunity to have lunch

with Santa Claus as well as have their pictures taken with jolly old St. Nick. Activities include face painting, Christmas crafts, and a Christmas cash giveaway at 1:45 p.m. Tickets may be purchased from any student or at the school office. Proceeds benefit the school.

If you want a lot of bang for your buck, the annual Christmas concert of the Ironton High School Singers is the event for you. The concert, which will be 2 p.m. Sunday in the high school auditorium, is free.

On Saturday, Dec. 14 and Sunday, Dec. 15, the Ironton High School Band Boosters will present the Yvonne DeKay School of Dance's performance of the Nutcracker. The shows, which will be in the Ironton High School auditorium, are at 7 p.m. Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday. General admission will be $6, and proceeds will go to the Ironton High School band. Tickets can be purchased by calling 534-1538 or 533-2784.

Any way you slice it, you do not have to travel to get a good taste of the holiday spirit. All you have to do is look in your own back yard. We encourage everyone to support these worthy events.