The annual Magical Christmas Celebration in Glenwood kicks off this Thursday, Dec. 1 with a number of activities, including a lighted parade, a tree-lighting ceremony and a free community dinner.  

The Tree Lighting Ceremony begins at 5:15 p.m. on the lawn in front of the Pope County Courthouse. The event includes a short program that includes a welcome from the Waterama Brass and Royalty, a blessing from Pastor Mark Kahrs and a closing and countdown by Glenwood Mayor Sherri Kazda. The community is welcome to join and residents are encouraged to turn on their Christmas lights to “light up the town!”

Glenwood’s annual lighted parade will twinkle through downtown Glenwood starting at 5:30 p.m. The perfect event to kick off the season with neighbors and cheer!

The lighted holiday parade begins on First Avenue Northwest and continues onto Minnesota Avenue to Second Street Northeast. Hot chocolate and popcorn will be served near the Pocket Park courtesy of American Solutions for Business. There’s still time to register for the parade by visiting www.WelcomeGlenwood.org or www.GlenwoodLakesArea.org or call 320-634-3636. 

That same evening, residents can gather with friends and community members for the Magical Christmas Free Community Dinner from 4-7 p.m. at the Glenwood Lutheran Church Social Hall at 206 Minnesota Avenue East. 

The meal is open to all community residents and is catered by Lakes Catering. The menu includes a pulled pork sandwich or hot dog, macaroni salad, chips, brownie and a beverage. Jolly McJingles will be there spreading holiday cheer with balloon twisting along with a Christmas coloring contest.