There was lots of fun for all ages at the Magical Christmas Candlelight Home Tour and the city of Garland’s Christmas on the Square event Thursday, Dec. 5. Both events helped get visitors into the holiday spirit and got the season off to a great start.
Friends of Garland’s Magic 11th Street sponsored the home tour which included an opportunity to see a few of Garland’s historic homes decked out in their Christmas finest. The owners of the houses were informative, gracious and welcoming. Open houses included: 400 South 11th Street, built in 1918; 411 South 11th Street, built in 1913; 311 South 11th Street, 
built in 1955; 317 South 11th Street, built in 1895; 313 South 11th Street, built in 1913; and 901 West Avenue E, built in 2014 but designed to fit into the historic Embree neighborhood.
In addition to the home tours, there were carolers and a variety of local artists, a live nativity scene, carriage rides, a crafts booth sponsored by the First Presbyterian Church, cocoa, hot dogs and snacks and of course, Santa was there for photos and to hear Christmas wishes.
Additional churches that participated include the First United Methodist Church, First Baptist Church, Light of the World Church and Wilshire Baptist Church.
The city of Garland presented Christmas on the Square just a few blocks away for what looked to be a record-breaking crowd. The square was bright with lights and decorations and Santa and Mrs. Claus were on-hand to light the Christmas tree and have photos taken with the kids.
After the tree lighting, everyone enjoyed a fireworks show. Carolers and musicians from several Garland ISD schools entertained the crowd and there was a snow hill for children to slide down. The kids also enjoyed train rides, 
craft booths, visits with police officers and firefighters, as well as tours of the fire engines. Several food trucks, along with the downtown restaurants, served dinner and snacks.
For those who needed to take care of some Christmas shopping, vendors were on-hand with unique, quality merchandise.
Santa photo and police officers photo provided by the city of Garland.