2009 Holiday Events in Athens, OH

As the Holidays approach each year in the Athens area, the town falls quiet as almost the entire student population returns home for winter break. Popular sites such as Court Street slow to a crawl, and those who remain are treated to a unique experience-that of a bustling community seemingly on pause throughout the month of December.

While the focus of holidays in the area is predominantly on peace and quiet, there exists no shortage of unique, fun events on tap for the 2009 season. The list below provides an overview of events in Athens and nearby Nelsonville that are sure to provide hours of enjoyment for adults and children alike.

What:Christmas on Mars Free Film Screening at Stuart's Opera House

Where: 52 Public Square, Nelsonville, OH (740-753-1924)

When: November 20, 2009

Cost: Free

For Whom: ***Adults Only***

American Rock/Psychedelic act The Flaming Lips, popular in the alternative scene for songs such as "She Don't Use Jelly" and "The W.A.N.D." debuted this oddly enjoyable film in 2008, featuring a twist of science fiction, holiday spirit, and the Lips' own unique sound that just manages to work.

The film's cast includes features the entire band, and centers around a newly-established colony on Mars at it attempts to create its own holiday tradition for the first time. It is not recommended for children, as it features some adult language and situations.

What: Thanksgiving Day Buffet at the OU Inn

Where: 331 Richland Ave., Athens, OH 45701 (740-593-6661)

When: November 26, 2009

Cost: $21.95 adult, $13.95 child (soft drinks included)

For Whom: All ages

If you're dreading all the preparation that goes into preparing for Thanksgiving Day, or simply looking to change things up this year, Cutler's Restaurant located in the beautiful Ohio University Inn is providing a convenient alternative.

The buffet will feature bottomless carved turkey, ham, stuffing, sweet potatoes, corn, green beans, salad, and pumpkin and pecan pie, according to athensohio.com. The wide array of options has something for just about everyone-you can invite the entire family along without fear of disappointing the picky eaters.

What: North Pole Nelsonville

Where: Nelsonville, OH (740-753-4346)

When: Friday-Sunday from November 27, 2009 to January 3, 2010

Cost: Free (Skating Rink admission $3, Skate Rental $2)

For Whom: All ages

Each weekend from late November to early January, the charming, nearby town of Nelsonville will be hosting events and decorating the streets to provide a taste of Santa's home for those unable to make the pilgrimage North.

The event will feature hot chocolate, a skating rink, access to local shopping and art, and for the younger ones, a visit to Santa's Village. Select dates will also feature unique shows and events, which will be detailed later on in the article.

What: Hocking Valley Scenic Railway Santa Train

When: November 28-29, December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, & 20, 2009

Where: 33 E Canal St., Nelsonville, OH (1-800-967-7834). Trains depart at 11:00 am and 2:00 PM

Cost: Get tickets at http://www.hvsry.org/home_page/santatrain.htm

For Whom: All ages

The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway is a non-profit organization founded in 1972. Throughout the year, volunteers run a vintage engine on themed train rides between Nelsonville and Logan, OH.

On Saturdays and Sundays throughout the holiday season, the train rides will feature a familiar figure; Santa Claus. Along with a helper, Santa will move throughout the train during the ride, visiting each child individually to hand out candy and discuss Christmas wishes. The cost for each ride, which lasts around two hours, is $16 for adults, $14 for seniors, $12 for children 3-12 years old, and free for children under 3.

What: Athens Tree Lighting Festival

Where: Corner of Washington and Court, Athens, OH (740-594-2251)

When: December 3, 2009 6:00 PM-8:00 PM.

Cost: Varies

For Whom: All ages

The uptown Athens event is a great opportunity to experience the culture of the Athens community and celebrate one of the most time-honored holiday traditions-tree lighting and decoration. Trees will be decorated with string popcorn at the Athens County Historical Society & Museum. Admission for the tree decoration is $4 for adults, $2 for seniors and students, and free for children 12 & under.

The Festival will also feature free wagon rides, cookie decoration at Brennen's Coffee, Face Painting at Mountain Laurel Gifts, and Christmas Card making at Cross Court. There will also be a performance from the Hocking Valley Chorus, as well as an opportunity to take pictures with Santa.

What: Communiversity Band Holiday Concert

Where: Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium, Athens, OH (740-593-4244)

When: December 16, 2009

Cost: Buy tickets at www.finearts.ohio.edu/music

For Whom: All ages

Andrew Trachsel will conduct the Communiversity Band in their annual Holiday Concert, featuring themed music from the band in a formal setting.

The Communiversity Band, which traces its roots back to the early 1940's, is a unique group and a testament to the diversity of the area. It features members of the local community as well as Ohio University students, alumni, and faculty. This fascinating cross-section provides a great opportunity for both sides of the Athens community to collaborate in holiday spirit and thanksgiving for one another.

What: Ohio Winter Folk Festival at Stuart's Opera House

Where: 52 Nelsonville Public Square, Nelsonville, OH (740-753-1924)

When: January 16, 2010

Cost: Sign up at http://www.stuartsoperahouse.org/contact/index.php?page=87 to be notified when tickets go on sale

For Whom: All ages

Even though the holidays have passed, the festivities don't necessarily have to end just yet. The inaugural Ohio Winter Folk Festival this year will feature a headlining performance from San Francisco-based Vetiver, who will be supported by a handful of acts hailing from all over the state of Ohio.

Sources:

www.athensohio.com

www.stuartsoperahouse.org

www.ohio.edu/finearts/music

www.hvsry.org

www.flaminglips.com