Camaraderie Takes Centerstage This Christmas

A happy jolly soul, Frosty the Snowman is not a fairytale anymore. He and Santa’s elf give thumbs up to youthful folly at Black Diamond’s Hometown Christmas 2022 on December 10. ~Photo by Bob Dobson

Snowflakes arrived just in time to authenticate Black Diamond’s Hometown Christmas 2022. Frosty the Snowman will be running here and there, running everywhere, yelling “catch me if you can.” However, children are encouraged to slow down while meandering through eight stations along Railroad Avenue that are filled with fun, folderol and food. Hometown Christmas is a five-hour event, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10.  

The day’s activities are divided between Eight Stations (business locations). Station 1, with an art project and face painting, is at Black Diamond Bakery. Station 2, hosted by Smokehouse and More, features the treasure hunt map that is based upon a train theme. The treasure hunt includes prizes. 

Then it’s time to snack. Station 3 at the Antique Store has free refreshments that appeal to children. Next door at Station 4, in the open area by the Antique Store, kids can make s’mores and enjoy popcorn. Station 5 is hosted by Black Diamond Grill. It points out a treasure hunt hidden item. A family hay wagon ride with old-time Christmas songs begins at Station 6. The wagon sits at the intersection of Railroad Avenue and Baker Street. The last two items for the treasure hunt can be found downstairs at the museum where Black Diamond Library has them hidden. The final Station #8 is where Santa and Mrs. Claus have traded in their traditional sleigh for a caboose. The couple will sit inside the Black Diamond Express, a train car on tracks outside the museum, while listening to Christmas wishes.

Families arriving for Hometown Christmas can park in the Eagles Hall parking lot. The best way to navigate all Eight Stations is to first visit the activity signboard by the Christmas tree on Railroad Avenue. The sign, located between the Antique Store and the historic Black Diamond jail, details individual events and where they are located. All activities, treats and prizes are free for children, as is entry to the museum which is supported with donations only. 

Other activities planned in Black Diamond on December 10 include a Christmas Bazaar at the elementary school on Baker Street from 9:00-4:00 p.m., Ten Trails Tree Lighting from 3:00-6:00 p.m., and live Christmas music at Sahara Pizza on Third Avenue from 11:00-1:00 p.m.