A RAPPAHANNOCK CHRISTMAS

COVID-19 has paused the traditional Christmas parade in Little Washington this year, but “A Rappahannock Christmas” will kick o soon.

This weekend, you’ll notice festive holidaythemed oats in four of Rappahannock’s villages: Washington: In front of the CFC Farm & Home Center (aka the co-op) on Rte. 211 Sperryville: In front of Headmaster's Pub Flint Hill: In post o ce parking lot, across street from Grin Tavern

Woodville: At the corner of Rte. 522 and Rudasill Mill Road at the old Mary's Store lot. The displays will be nalized by Sunday, Dec. 6, when they will be judged by the following criteria:

• Best Representation of “A Rappahannock Christmas”

• Best Overall Crasmanship

• Public Appeal

This year’s judges are Sheri Connie Compton, Lillian Aylor and Kendra Settle. The winning entry will get a live Christmas tree to plant in their village. Garcia Tree Service & Landscaping will plant the tree.

Each oat will also contain an "I Spy" reindeer for kids, where they (and adults young at heart) can look for a specic Christmasthemed item at each village display.

Santa and Mrs. Claus are making their annual appearance, bringing gis for the county’s children on Sunday, Dec. 6, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the old County Administrator’s o ce across the street from the Little Washington Theatre. This year’s event will be a drive-thru with gis delivered through the windows of vehicles. Please stay in your car and wear a mask.

As of now, the long range weather report for the weekend of Dec. 5-6 is mild and sunny.

Local artisans have been a part of the Christmas parade tradition and will be this year, albeit virtually. Parade organizers have partnered with RAAC to create a Holiday Artisans Market. Check it out at raac.org/ holiday-artisan-market/ COVID-19 won’t cancel Christmas!