Christmas Tyme in Aledo gets icy

The unseasonably warm temperatures have done a fantastic job of concealing the fact that the holidays are upon us. As we all begin to embrace our favorite traditions, the City of Aledo is set to embark upon one of the community’s most cherished traditions, the 47th Annual Christmas Tyme in Aledo Festival.

This year the festivities will start a day early with Christmas Tyme in Aledo on Ice. On Friday, Dec. 6, residents from all over Aledo will have the opportunity to lace up a pair of ice skates and work their way around a real ice rink located at city hall. For just $15 per person, folks will be able to reserve skates online at aledotx.gov/skate or rent a pair on a first-come, first-serve basis at the rink. 

Christmas Tyme in Aledo on Ice will run daily through Jan. 5, except for Christmas Day when the rink will be closed. Patrons of the rink will have the opportunity to take in the festive atmosphere, while also indulging in a bevy of holiday happenings. 

They can witness professional ice skaters showcasing their talents, partaking of festive offerings for adults and children alike courtesy of Vinoco, spot visitors from the North Pole throughout the month, and sample some tasty treats to help get them into the spirit of the holidays. Local businesses will have sponsorship opportunities related to the rink, and private parties are also available.

Deck the downtown

After scuffing up the ice on opening night, residents will want to return to downtown Aledo on Saturday, Dec. 7, to take in all the splendor of the Christmas Tyme in Aledo Festival. 

The day will start early with the annual craft fair running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Church at the Crossing Gymnasium on 128 Elm St. Admission will be free to the public, but prices will vary on the treasures found within the craft fair. 

As the sun begins to set, the Festival will get underway at 5 p.m. Friends and families will be able to enjoy live music, delicious holiday fare, check out the vendor booths, and sample the wares at the local businesses along downtown Aledo. 

Visitors from the North Pole will stop in to celebrate the Christmas season, take one last opportunity to confirm that pesky “naughty or nice” list, and take time for a quick photo op. 

At 6:30 p.m., the evening will hit a crescendo with Mayor Nick Stanley performing the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony. 

The festivities will be fun for all ages, and continue until 9 p.m.

For more information surrounding all that Christmas Tyme in Aledo will have to offer, go to www.aledotx.gov/ChristmasTyme. For questions, email Whitney Walters at wwalters@aledotx.gov.