I would just like to say bravo to Vista Lights. The Congaree Vista’s annual event is the unofficial beginning of the holiday season, but I was thrilled to see just a tiny dash of festive cheer. Personally, I feel that anything involving Mr. Claus should wait until after Thanksgiving. Especially when we’re in South Carolina and it’s pushing 70 degrees during the day.
Vista Lights didn’t get carried away with the Christmas tree; it wasn’t even a pine tree, just something tall and leafy and strung in pretty lights. Apparently Santa made an appearance, but I never saw him. I mostly saw cute little ballerinas, food stands and a bunch of really cool art exhibits. I only heard one carol, and I can’t even remember what it was.
I’ve always been weirded out when stores start stocking holiday decorations way back in October. I believe Halloween candy needs to be on clearance before dreidels and reindeer start showing up. It’s a little morbid when Freddy masks are just one aisle down from Rudolph.
I hope I don’t sound rude. Trust me, I’m no Scrooge. I love the holiday season. I hang paper snowflakes in my doorways and start my holiday shopping the day after Thanksgiving. But not a day sooner.
So again, I applaud you, Vista Lights. It was great to get out of the house and have fun without spending very much money. Last night I had a free crab cake, discovered a few new hangouts, and got a light, yet satisfying, appetizer of holiday cheer.
