Our top five picks for hoilday fun in December

Last updated: August 30, 2021

December looks like a busy month in Mercer County. From parades and light displays to family traditions, there is plenty to explore and memories to be made. If you are looking for ideas, we are here to help. New to the area?  We got fun traditions for you and your family. Just visiting? We would love to share the season.  Here are our top picks on ways to celebrate the season in southern West Virginia!

Attend a Christmas parade in the city of Bluefield on Dec. 10 at 1 p.m. The route will start on the corner of South Street and Bland Street, head North on Bland Street to Federal Street and with a right at Princeton Avenue ending at the green grassy area downtown between Raleigh Street and Princeton Avenue.

Take family Christmas photos at various landmarks throughout Mercer County. Our favorite backdrops are the Princeton Railroad Museum, Bluefield City Park and the town of Bramwell. Make sure you dress in red and green!

Explore a night in Bethlehem on December 9, 10, 16, and 17 from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. at Bluefield City Park. Join a local church on a journey to the biblical City of Bethlehem.  Be a part of history and witness the events that led up to the birth of Jesus Christ.  Take a walk through the marketplace and visit the shops.  Taste treats at the baker and candy shops.  Participate in “hands-on” activities in the pottery and metal working shops. Hang on to your coins for the Roman census and taxation (coins provided). Ride through the Holiday of Lights before you head back home.

Visit the area’s only bookstore for Christmas books. The Hatters Bookstore in Princeton has a great selection of Christmas stories for evening bedtimes with little ones.  Make a new tradition this holiday season!  Treat yourself to a cup of coffee at Sister’s Coffee House before you go.

End the month by ringing in the New Year in Mercer County! With two different ball drops – The Downtown Countdown and Lemon Drop, we have options for families and adults who want to sip champagne at the stroke of midnight.