It is being called the largest ever by organizers.  Cameron County Christmas began with a week of shopping small where more than $15,000 was spent at local businesses.  Shoppers were asked to track spending and then were entered to win chamber bucks provided by C&N Bank.

Friday night the parade stepped off with more than 25 participants.  Taking home fan favorite was Singers Auto Service with owner Jimmy Singer wowing the crowd with his dance moves on the train car from Polar Express.  Caroline Gleason joined the parade marking the first time equestrian riders took part.  Gleason was awarded the chamber prize.  St Mark Catholic Church received the reason for the season award with the live nativity float.  Cameron County Girl Scouts brought home the organization award by singing Rudolph and enjoying a ride in a pickup complete with a red nose!  Members of Cameron County High School Marching Band decorated clothing with lights and wowed the crowd with holiday music.  Emporium Hardwoods Rockin Round the Christmas Tree drew loud applause as it drove the route.  Decorated with a large guitar and tree pulled by a tractor trailer the float was the winner of the business category. 

Saturday brought the conclusion of two basket raffles.  The Cameron County High School Quarterback Club and the Community Dance pulled winners.  Santa had breakfast with the Emporium Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary while two of his reindeer visited with people downtown.  Vendors also braved the chilly Saturday and sold hand made items while organizations raised funds. 

The season is now in full swing according to Cameron County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Tina Solak.  “The selfie scavenger hunt lasts all month.  People find outside decorations and take a selfie then upload the photo to the Christmas in Cameron County Facebook group,” Solak explains. Winners will be drawn on New Years Day.  In addition, A Christmas Time at Sarah Janes Studio in downtown Emporium is open every weekend till Christmas.  Sarah has painting classes Friday nights, Santa visits Saturday afternoons and this Sunday pets are invited to have pictures taken with Santa.  The theme this year was woodland creatures.  Several cuddly creatures have been available for children to pet including a rabbit and puppies.

The entire celebration continues to grow because of the community says Solak who is looking forward to adding more events in 2025.