The spirit of Christmas was in full force in Clearwater last Saturday, with several holiday events happening around town.

The fun started at Rejoice Lutheran as its families and youth hosted the church’s annual European Christmas Tea and Bake Sale. Kids, some dressed in their holiday best, walked around gaily decorated tables offering attendees an array of delicious sweets.

Guests were treated to Scandinavian and Christmas goodies and had the chance to taste flavored coffees and teas. Homemade cookies and treats were also available for sale. 

Over at the Clearwater American Legion, kids gathered for the Legion Auxiliary’s annual Children’s Christmas Party. Along with numerous holiday crafts for them to create, the kids were able to meet Santa Claus and share with him what they wanted for Christmas.

The area’s annual Toys for Tots event was also being celebrated, with Clearwater area businesses, organizations, and volunteers outside in front of their buildings to entice people to stop by with new toys and monetary donations for the worthy organization. 

Volunteers stood outside the Legion, Clearwater Corners, and Flinstone’s Bar, encouraging people to donate; Clearwater Travel Plaza also collected toys. Members of the Clearwater Fire Dept. joined in the fun, stopping by to help draw attention to the event. 

By late in the afternoon, several boxes had been filled with gifts for area children and teenagers and money had been donated to purchase more.