Golden can be proud of this time of year. The twinkling lights along “the Avenue” and the big display at the Visitors Center are already up and glowing.
I especially like the distinctive intensely colored lights on the large pine tree right on the corner of 10th Street and Washington Avenue, by the Golden Visitors Center. Of course, there’s still the thrill of seeing the lights along Clear Creek come alive at the Nov. 30 Candlelight Walk. Think about it. Other towns may have tall buildings lighted like Christmas trees. Others might have a courthouse for a community sing. But we have it all, encompassing the entire downtown, in a truly beautiful setting that invites us to stroll, shop and relax over a latte. I’m proud of you, Golden.
A great big thanks to the City of Golden, the merchants, the museums and restaurants that have spent many hours making the scene a stunning place to be during this holiday season.
After the turkey
The weekend following Thanksgiving Day, make time to do a few things close to home with the family. The Holiday Art Market at Foothills Art Center runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
The market has enough atmosphere to put everyone in the Christmas mood, and even the youngest family members will thrill at the array of Christmas tree ornaments, which become more attractive if each child is allowed to choose his/her own handmade trinket for the family tree. There’s no charge to browse, and the ornaments are little treasures that won’t cost a fortune.
Another artsy place to visit is Spirits of the Wind Gallery on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 23 and 24. Steve Quintera, the artist who creates hand-blown glass ornaments, will be there to greet customers between noon and 5 p.m.
The kiddies will enjoy a stop at the Golden Visitors Center. Have them write a “wish list” to Santa and drop it in the mailbox in the reception area. Santa will answer each letter received. How convincing can things get?
While at the center, take special note of the snowflake-decorated tree. I was there to attend a meeting this past week and felt as though I was compelled to stand in awe before this beautiful tree. Golden resident Esther Papenfus created hundreds of crocheted flakes to cover the entire tree. Seeing it is a “wow” experience.
Last, but far from least, consider taking the children to Heritage Square Music Hall to see “Santa Needs a Holiday.”
The Painted Toe Society exhibit
What? The Painted Toe Society is a talented group of painters who gather every Monday in the Petersen classroom of the Foothills Art Center to paint, learn, laugh and enjoy one another’s company and offer encouragement. They are great supporters of the center, and their works are on display until Dec. 30. Look for it in the Foothills II building during the Holiday Art Market.
I’m looking forward to viewing the accomplishments of this group, but it might be more fun to get a glimpse of those “painted toes” sure to shock today’s art scene.
For seniors
Should you find yourself unable to drive or procure a ride to your next medical appointment, shopping excursion or anticipated event, call 303-235-6972 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
The Senior Resource Center’s Transportation Services will be able to help you with a ride. Call at least two to three working days in advance, if at all possible. Funding is from the Federal Older Americans Act administered by the Denver Regional Council of Governments.
For many seniors without transportation, this could be the answer to a dream. If so, call and give it a try.