By Keith Knepp
InkFreeNews

SYRACUSE — Are you looking for a unique fun-filled Christmas family activity this weekend? Chautauqua’s annual “Old Fashioned Christmas” is just what you’re seeking.

A variety of characters is waiting for you at Chautauqua Wawasee’s annual “Old Fashioned Christmas” to be held from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27. InkFree News photo provided by Chautauqua Wawasee.

After the tryptophan stupor burns off from a Thanksgiving well-spent with family and friends, come out to Oakwood Resort in Syracuse from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27.

Santa will be there with his reindeer, which you actually will have the opportunity to pet. Enjoy the live Nativity scene and sleigh rides, and, of course the lighting of the big tree.

A reading of the Christmas story from the Bible at the historic Oakwood Chapel is planned. New this year is a photo booth for family Christmas pictures, using your phone camera. Be on the lookout for characters who are roaming around, including Frosty, the Grinch, Rudolph, Buddy-the-Elf, Toy Soldier and Gingerbread Man.

The event will be held outdoors on the grounds of Oakwood Resort. The festivities start at 6 p.m. with music near the Oakwood Inn. Music and carols will be sung around the 60-foot Christmas tree, which will be lit at 6:15 p.m. Afterward, your group can stroll up the lighted path to see Santa and Mrs. Claus, take pictures with roaming characters and listen to an elf read “Twas the Night Before Christmas.”

Two barbershop quartets will be strolling around the grounds singing carols, along with two other music groups. Get warmed up with some hot chocolate and munch on a cookie. Don’t forget to pick up some food to take home for Santa’s reindeer. Stroll up to the historic Oakwood chapel to hear the Christmas story read from the Bible. On your way to the chapel, stop to see the live Nativity.

You’ll certainly want to relax and enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride around the park. These are just some of the many fun activities at the Old Fashioned Christmas celebration.

Organizers are hoping for a bit of snow, but if severe weather occurs, check the Chautauqua-Wawasee website, www.chqw.org, or Facebook page www.facebook.com/ChautauquaWawasee for information and updates.

All events are free and open to the public.