A Nokesville Christmas Dec. 13: Parade, Santa, eats and living nativity

The Nokesville community is gearing up for its 15th annual Christmas celebration on Dec. 13.

The highlight of the event will be the parade which kicks off at 4 p.m.

The hour-long parade begins at the former Nokesville Elementary School, proceeds down Fitzwater Drive and disperses at Free Street.

The parade entries include two bands, Brentsville District High School and Patriot High School, floats, majorette groups, fire and rescue units, dignitaries, and, of course Santa Claus.

Grand marshals are Eric Worcester, principal of the new Nokesville School, and Andrew Buchheit, principal of T. Clay Wood Elementary School.

Entries are still being accepted to participate in the parade according to Stanley Keys, chairman. To do so call 703 361-3529 or 703 792 -6556.

Santa will set up in the Fellowship Hall of Nokesville Church of the Brethren following the parade to chat with the young tots. The children are encouraged to bring a canned fruit or vegetable which will be donated to the Northern Virginia Family Service (SERVE, Inc.)

The festivities are sponsored by the Nokesville Business Association and the Friends Uniting Nokesville.

The church will also put on a Live Nativity following the parade on the church lawn.

A chili and hot dog dinner will follow the Live Nativity in the church. The cost is $5 for adults and children 12 and over with proceeds donated to the Nokesville School Student Needs Fund and the Nokesville United Methodist Church Food Pantry.

Upwards of 300 normally attend the dinner with thousands lining the main street of the town for the parade.

The Brethren Church will also host Christmas Caroling in the community on Dec. 19 at 7 p.m., Christmas Cantata during worship service on Dec. 21 at 11 a.m., and Christmas Eve Candle Lighting Service at on Dec. 24 at 7 p.m.

The church will also have a Children’s Program during worship on Dec. 7 at 11 a.m.