The holidays are an exciting time in Danville. This weekend’s calendar is full of fun, holiday-related events, ranging from annual annual favorites such as the Holiday Market and Riverview Rotary Christmas Parade to a new event, River District on Ice. Enjoy the weekend and the festive spirit that makes this a wonderful place! In chronological order, here is a list of some of the fun things happening.
SCIENCE AFTER DARK
When: 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday, Dec. 1
Where: Danville Science Center, 677 Craghead St.
Discover the mysteries of the universe during our monthly adventures! Learn how to use and create your own star charts or journey through the night sky in The Dome with a special all-live Cosmic Expedition. Gaze through telescopes and see firsthand some of the wonders of the nighttime sky, weather permitting. This event is in partnership with the Institute for Advance Learning and Research. Cost: Members and students with college ID enjoy free admission to Science After Dark; general admission is $5.
HOLIDAY MARKET
When: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2
Where: Danville Community Market, 629 Craghead St.
Visit the Community Market for the eighth annual Holiday Market featuring everything you need to get ready for your holiday parties and gatherings, including handmade wreaths, centerpieces, crafts, jewelry and artwork, baked goods and locally grown Christmas trees. The event will feature more than 100 vendors inside and outside the Community Market. Breakfast with Santa again will be part of the event from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Enjoy pancakes and pictures with Santa. The Danville Girl Scouts sponsors the breakfast. The market will run from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the breakfast will be from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Admission is free for both the market and the breakfast. For more information, call 797-8961.
POLAR EXPRESS PAJAMA PARTY
When: 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2, and Saturday, Dec. 9
Where: Danville Science Center, 677 Craghead St.
Come to the science center for a special showing of “The Polar Express” in the Digital Dome. Showings are 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Children are invited to dress in their favorite pajamas and bring the entire family along. Pictures will be taken before and after the movie. The first picture is free. Each additional picture is $4. Reservations are required and space is limited. Tickets can be purchased in person at the science center, by phone and online. Cost: $15 general admission, $12 for members. There will be snacks and drinks for purchase. For more information, call 791-5160, ext. 0.
CHRISTMAS ON THE PLAZA
When: 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2
Where: Main Street Plaza, 215 Main St.
Kick off the holidays at the Main Street Plaza as the River District Association hosts its annual tree lighting event. Celebrate the season with music, treats and of course a little magic. The event is free to attend and participants are encouraged to vote for their favorite store windows.
LUMINARIA TRAIL WALK
When: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2
Where: Main Street Plaza, 215 Main St.
Following the tree lighting at the Main Street Plaza, celebrate the season with a candlelight walk along the Riverwalk Trail while listening to holiday music. Gather at the Main Street Plaza and walk along the Riverwalk Trail from the Main Street Plaza to the Community Market. Lighted luminaries will be placed on the trail and carolers will be singing Christmas tunes. Warm refreshments and snacks will be provided. This event is a favorite for all ages. Cost: Free. For more information, call 799-5150.
RIVER DISTRICT ON ICE
When: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 2
Where: Crossing at the Dan, 629 Craghead St.
Enjoy opening night for this new event in the River District. Skate on a 30-foot by 40-foot outdoor, synthetic ice rink. The rink simulates real ice and is great for both beginners and experienced skaters. After opening night, the rink remain open until Jan. 2 on the following schedule: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 9 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Cost: $2 per person for a 20-minute session (cash only). Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
CHRISTMAS PARADE
When: 3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 3
Where: Main Street from Broad Street to Craghead Street
The Riverview Rotary Club presents its annual Christmas parade. This year’s theme is “Peace on Earth.” The parade route will start at Rison and Broad streets and continue downtown, ending at the intersection of Main and Craghead streets. Float traffic will continue on Craghead Street to Newton Street and end at Newton’s Landing. To avoid in the gaps in the line, there will be no performer's area. All floats will be judged prior to the parade. Winners will be designated with a sign of vehicle magnet. Cost: Free. For more information, call the Danville Welcome Center at 793-4636.
