By Rachel Basinger

Published: Monday, November 19, 2012, 12:01 a.m.
Updated: Wednesday, January 9, 2013

The Scottdale Area Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for its annual Christmas celebration for the community.

The Winter Light Celebration is scheduled for Dec. 1 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Scottdale Gazebo. It will again include a visit and picture session with Santa.

Chamber member Jennifer Olack said they also will include pets for pictures this year with Rudolph, which is the Scottie mascot dressed like Rudolph.

Hot dogs, hot chocolate, coffee, homemade chili and other refreshments will be available. Members of the Regional Family YMCA's Make a Difference club will be on hand for some face-painting and games.

The fire pits, which are always popular on chilly evenings, will be in place to add an extra element of warmth. Memorial ornaments will be available to decorate and add to the Remembrance Tree.

Memorial ornaments are on sale now and can be purchased at Fox's Pizza. Also, the Southmoreland High School choir and middle school band will provide entertainment.

Another fun part of the evening will be the Gingerbread House contest. Applications can be picked up at Fox's Pizza, the Scottdale Library or Standard Bank.

The Gingerbread House contest has a small twist to it this year. The house must be constructed of any other baking material except gingerbread.

Olack said individuals can use a cookie, brownie, cake, muffin, noodle, Rice Krispy Treats, popcorn or any other base for the house. Participants can enter individually, as a group, or as a family, and the entries must have been constructed in 2012. The size limit is 24x24 inches wide and 36 inches high, including a 2-inch base.

The completed creations must be delivered to the Winter Light Celebration between 4 and 5 p.m. on a supportive base and labeled with name, address and phone number.

The houses will be judged by popular vote. There also will be a chamber “Choice” selection.

Following the Winter Light Celebration, the creations will be on display at the library from Dec. 1 to 20.

New this year, the chamber is offering 12 days of giveaways.

“If you bring a new toy for Madisyn's Angels or a nonperishable food item for the food bank, you can sign up for a chance to participate in the drawings,” Olack said.

Rachel Basinger is a freelance writer.

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