Holiday events are kicking in gear around Crenshaw County, starting Thursday night in Luverne.

The Chamber of Commerce will be holding a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Thursday, Nov. 29 at 6 p.m. in Luverne at the Pepsi Pavilion next to Mainstreet Sweets.  There will be caroling and hot chocolate.

The Chamber’s Christmas Parade will be held on Saturday, Dec. 1, beginning at 11 a.m.  Line up for floats and groups begins at 9:30 a.m. at the Old Armory.

Picture taking with Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be on Saturday at the same place as the Christmas tree lighting beginning at 10 a.m. and then again after the parade.

Brantley has also made plans for its Front Porch Christmas, which will be held on Saturday, Dec. 8.

The Brantley United Methodist Church youth will host the Jingle Bell Trot 5k at 8 am and a One Mile Fun Run at 9 am.

Registration for these events will end at 7:30 am at the Bethany Center in Brantley.

The Christmas parade will begin at 11 am and will be followed by the Main Street Festivities which will include a tree lighting ceremony, local vendors, singing groups, and door prizes.

Also, unwrapped toys will be accepted at both the Luverne and Brantley Christmas parades to benefit Crenshaw County DHR’s Operation Santa Claus.

Toys can also be brought to the DHR office by Dec. 14.

Anyone wishing to sponsor a local child  for Christmas can contact Alicia Sexton at Crenshaw County DHR at 335-7000 by Dec. 7.