Smith’s Castle Christmas, other holiday events announced

Tis’ the season and the folks at Smith’s Castle are gearing up for their annual Christmas at the Castle, and the town is looking for donations to help out the less fortunate in the community.

Having had to cancel both of its major fundraisers this year because of weather, Smith’s Castle is hoping for a large, generous turn out for this year’s event.

The event runs on Saturday and Sunday Dec. 2 and 3 from noon until 4 p.m. on both days.

“Our historic house museum will be fully decorated for the season. Docents in colonial garb will also be featured along with live entertainment, crafts for children and a cup of good cheer from Father Christmas,” organizers said.

This year’s theme is Remembering Christmases Past: 75

Years and Counting.

Admission is $8 for adults, children 6-12-years old is $4 and for families is capped at $25. It’s free for children under 6 and for association members.

Entertainment will be provided by Dan Butterworth and his puppets, Christmas Music of the 40s will be provided by the Wheeler School Concert Bellringers, the Brown Madrigal Singers will provide songs and stories, and Anne Marie Porer and Shelia Reynolds will present Colonial Craft Demonstrations.

For the kids Father Christmas will be there for photos, Cookie Decorating Hand Painting by Cynthia and there will be outdoor games (weather permitting).

There will also be a bake sale, Christmas Bazaar, Raffle Baskets, free gingersnaps and hot mulled cider.

Organizers are asking attendees to bring canned goods for donations to the North Kingstown Food Pantry and you will receive 10 percent off you purchases at the Christmas Bazaar.

North Kingstown will be holding a giving program. The Holiday Giving Program focuses on providing gifts for children in families experiencing hardship

who are unable to provide the gifts themselves. Families must meet certain eligibility guidelines and an in-person interview is required. The program is offered annually from October to December.

Adopt a Family

The program is driven by the generosity of individuals, families and local businesses who anonymously “adopt” families in need. Matching families with donors and getting gift cards to recipient families requires tremendous coordination. Those who want to adopt families in need should call the Holiday Giving Office at 401268-1596 weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donor and recipient personal information is strictly confidential.

Donate a Gift Card

Residents wishing to help the Holiday Giving Program do not have to adopt a family; instead, they may wish to donate a retail gift card or a check. Gift cards can be dropped off at North Kingstown Senior and Human Services, 44 Beach Street, North Kingstown RI 02852. A check can be dropped off or mailed to: Holiday Giving Program, care of North Kingstown Senior and Human Services, P.O. Box 313, North Kingstown, RI 02852. Checks should be made payable to “North Kingstown Holiday Giving Program.” For questions, please contact the Holiday Giving Office at 401-2681596.