Williamsburg residents take a walk in town

The streets in Williamsburg were lined with luminaries on Friday, Dec. 4, as residents strolled down Main Street for the annual Trains of Williamsburg Christmas Walk.

The Williamsburg Township Fire Department brought Santa Claus to the corner of Third and Main streets to visit with children during the evening.

Those waiting in line to visit with Santa heard Christmas music presented by the Williamsburg Middle and High School band and choir, Girl Scouts from the area sang carols, the Williamsburg third grade choir performed and members of Trinity Christian Fellowship offered entertainment to end the evening.

"We have a good crowd here tonight," said councilwoman Terri Ousley. "The weather is cold, but not so cold that people are staying home. I had a conversation with someone who told me that they had no idea they could buy a particular item from Baskets and Treasures, she had always gone to Eastgate to purchase them not realizing they were in Williamsburg. It was exciting to hear that. That's the whole idea of the Christmas Walk."

There was plenty of food and hot chocolate offered for those who walked in the chilly night air. The Grassy Run Rendevous had a wood fire available to stop and warm your hands in between conductor stops. Many of the shops had train displays and Fitzgerald's Pharmacy held a raffle for a "Pennsylvania Flyer" train set. The set was donated by Sharon Wood in honor of her late husband, Bob.

Frankie Verdin was the winner of the raffle and was present when his name was announced.

"In past years when 9 p.m. rolls around, the streets are pretty empty, but this year Santa and the fire truck rides were still going on up to 9 p.m. and they were supposed to be done at 8 p.m.," said Ousley. "We even had a crowd waiting for the drawing and the winner was there, another first!"

The Williamsburg Garden Club held a silent auction of holiday decorations and baked goods in the village offices.

Frosty the Snowman was seen in two locations in the village shaking hands with those who passed by.

Ousley is part of the committee to plan the event and she noted that there has already been discussion about adding strolling carolers for next year.

"We think that would be a great addition to the walk," said Ousley.