Scotland County kicked off the holiday season on Sunday, November 20, with Christmas On Main in historic downtown Laurinburg. Shops remain decorated, and many area merchants are still offering Christmas specials. This is a great time to soak up some holiday cheer.

With help from Lumbee River EMC, visitors are enjoying a new attraction this year. Organizers converted an empty building into a Winter Wonderland exhibit that takes holiday travelers on a Christmas tour- from the natural through the whimsical and into the magical. LREMC's contribution also helped purchase the books children will receive for free after viewing the exhibit.

"Our goal is to warm hearts and put smiles on people's faces," said Jennie Pope. "The Winter Wonderland exhibit and other attractions at Christmas On Main would not be possible donations from businesses and the community."

Christmas On Main is entering its fifth year. Since its inception, a faithful group of volunteers led by Terry Parker has worked tirelessly to create an experience in Downtown Laurinburg that gives families memories they will cherish forever. Each year volunteers work to turn downtown Laurinburg, the city's heart, into a Christmas hub. They hope to do it bigger and better than the previous years. In addition to the Winter Wonderland, Pam Hansen crafted over 200 Penguins that will be placed downtown and around the city for a follow-the-penguin drive- another example of the new experiences they hope to offer.

"We should not have to drive hours away to experience a Hallmark-style Christmas," said Parker. "We can create a grand spirit of Christmas right here in our neighborhood."

The sights and sounds in Downtown Laurinburg are open to Scotland County residents and neighbors from visiting counties. There is no fee, but Tis the Season accepts donations they will use to keep this vibrant tradition alive. The decorations come down the week after Christmas.