Originally published : weirtondailytimes
WEIRTON — The Christmas holiday was ushered into the community Saturday with an afternoon of activities, live entertainment and more.
Christmas on Main Street, organized by the City of Weirton and Renaissance Weirton Corp., featured more than 40 vendors lined up along the city’s Main Street, along with games, food and festive decorations.
It was capped off by the lighting of the city’s official Christmas tree, located in front of the Millsop Community Center, and a fireworks display.
Mayor Harold Miller greeted area residents before joining members of the Berdine family to light the tree.
“It was five years ago we brought the tree back to north Weirton, and now look at this crowd,” Miller said.
The Berdine family donated the tree, with two other trees, located at the north and south ends of the city, contributed by the Kolosky family.
Miller offered thanks to city employees and members of city council for their support in putting the event together. In particular, credit was given to Scott Marshall, the city’s electrician, Brandy Brock and Assistant City Manager DeeAnn Pulliam.
Major sponsors included Weirton Medical Center, Nick’s Auto, the Frontier Group of Companies and Cleveland-Cliffs.
Throughout the afternoon, visitors could take part in LED miniature golf and a mechanical reindeer ride in front of St. Paul Church, train rides for the kids along Main Street and ice skating in front of the Millsop Community Center.
Santa and Mrs. Claus also made an appearance, greeting local youth in attendance.
Several local crafters, civic organizations and restaurants set up shop throughout the afternoon, including Giometti’s Catering, which offered samples of some of its food.
“We have an appetizer menu,” explained Walter Ruszkowski, noting options of three burger bombs, pigs in a blanket, stuff sweet peppers and stuff mushrooms.
Entertainment was provided by State of Mind, Dance by Hillary, Namesake, Casey Sisters Dance Academy, Deja vu, Michele Dance Studio, the Weirton Christian Center Signs of Hope and the Brooke High School Madrigal Choir.
(Howell can be contacted at chowell@weirtondailytimes.com, and followed via Twitter @CHowellWDT)