GRANITE QUARRY, NC — The annual Christmas at the Lake celebration ignited excitement on Saturday, December 2, 2023, as families flocked to Granite Lake Park for a dazzling festival of holiday cheer. The event, which commenced in the afternoon, featured the highly anticipated lighting of the festival of trees, drawing hundreds of locals eager to partake in the beloved tradition.
As the clock approached 5:45 PM, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation. Families enjoyed festive activities, including lawn games, s’more making, and encounters with beloved characters such as the Grinch and the gingerbread man. Children dashed between event areas, their laughter echoing around the lakeside, highlighting the community spirit that this holiday celebration fosters.
Debbie Loflin-Benge, Granite Quarry’s Event Coordinator, shared the event’s heartwarming mission. “We get a Christmas list from the family with what the family needs. So, they give us that, and they don’t go crazy. They’re like ‘we need food. We need toilet paper.’ Stuff that’s not an extravagance. It’s things you need,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of Operation Christmas Spirit. This initiative allows community members to provide essential holiday items for families in need, demonstrating the town’s commitment to supporting its residents.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the event featured a house light competition, sponsored by Select Realty and Nothing Bundt Cakes. Participants submitted entries from various neighborhoods, with the winner set to receive a yard sign and a $100 gift card for more decorations. This friendly competition engaged the community in spreading holiday joy.
The event also included a special booth where children could write letters to Santa, further enriching the holiday experience. A firepit, sponsored by Novant Health, offered warmth and s’mores, while local vendors provided delicious treats such as hot chocolate and candy apples from Happy’s Farm, who generously donated character costumes for the festivities.
As the sun set over Granite Lake Park, the moment that attendees had been waiting for arrived. At precisely 5:45 PM, Mayor Brittany Barnhardt addressed the crowd, and with a countdown, dozens of trees illuminated the lakeshore in a stunning display. For the first time, the town’s main tree, standing over ten feet tall, shone brightly with white lights, making it a breathtaking centerpiece amidst other decorated trees sponsored by local businesses and organizations.
The crowd erupted in cheers, capturing the magical moment on their phones as the entire lakeside transformed into a winter wonderland. This year’s event not only celebrated the holiday season but also reinforced community bonds, reminding all attendees of the spirit of giving and togetherness.
With the festival successfully concluded, Granite Quarry looks forward to continuing its cherished traditions and supporting families in need. Residents are encouraged to participate in upcoming community initiatives that foster goodwill throughout the year.
Stay tuned for more updates on local events and community initiatives as Granite Quarry continues to shine brightly this holiday season.
