Choose and cut events set Dec. 6

Local tree growers are gearing up for the annual Choose and Cut Day event, which is scheduled for Dec. 6.

Featured activities include the Christmas Crafts Fair, an annual arts and crafts show that will be held at the Emerson Black Exhibition Building from 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. That event will feature 30 craft vendors, with items such as baskets, woodworking, Christmas decorations, baked goods, jewelry, dolls and many other items. "We usually have as many as a couple thousand people come through each year," commented Leanne Murray, director of the Alleghany County Chamber of Commerce, which coordinates the event. "It's a great opportunity to do all your Christmas shopping and support local artists at the same time."

She said some local tree farms also are planning special happenings on Saturday for the Choose and Cut Day event.

"Several of the tree farms will have special events, such as crafts fairs, visits by Santa Claus and hay rides," Murray added.

Brochures on the event are available at the chamber of commerce office on Main Street in Sparta and online at www.sparta-nc.com under the ‘What's Happening' tab.

Tree Growers

Choose and Cut season officially started on Nov. 22 and continues through Dec. 24.

Each individual grower sets hours and dates of operation.

The special Choose and Cut Day, always the first Saturday in December, also includes the craft fair and other special events.

A total of 12 growers are taking part in the Choose and Cut promotion by the chamber.