Christmas at Crossroads

By Erin Slay

Cobblestone lined streets, 1920s inspired architecture, and a charming walkable town square all set Russell Crossroads apart as an idyllic place to start the holiday season. Situated near Lake Martin, Russell Crossroads boasts a family-friendly backdrop for enjoying all that Christmas at Crossroads has to offer.

The fifth annual Christmas at Crossroads will be held at the Russell Crossroads on Nov. 25-27. The event will include a visit from Santa Claus, horse-drawn carriage rides, a holiday bazaar and much more. Over 600 people have attended the festivities in years past and planners expect a similar crowd this year.

On Friday, Nov. 25, Santa Claus will arrive in the Town Green for fun and photos with the children. While the children spend time getting photos and talking with Santa, parents and grandparents can enjoy a live band and walking around the square. Children can also create Christmas ornaments and bird feeders from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.

In addition to other Friday activities, there will be turkeys at Naturalist Marianne’s cabin from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Kids can see, touch, and feed the turkeys up close. Marianne Hudson is the naturalist for Auburn University and handles all of the eagles that fly during game day in the fall.

Janet Price, director of marketing for Christmas at Crossroads, is excited about the events coming up this season. “[Christmas at Crossroads] is like slipping back into a simpler time of holiday charm,” says Price.

Price commented that families should not miss the complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides that will take them around the beautiful grounds at the Russell Crossroads.

On Saturday, November 26th, Mrs. Claus will be sharing a pancake breakfast, including story time in the Stables, with the children. There will be a $5 charge per person for the breakfast with Mrs. Claus.

Hannah Nader and her family have attended Christmas at Crossroads for the past few years.

“We initially went to Christmas at the Crossroads to get a picture of our children with Santa,” says Nader. “The kids really enjoy meeting Santa, and I enjoy seeing how excited they are to talk with him!”

Nader and her family plan to attend Christmas at Crossroads again this year, with other family coming from Louisiana for the weekend.

Christmas at Crossroads will also hold a Holiday Bazaar at the Stables from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the weekend. Artists and local vendors will be selling art, clothing, candles, Christmas decor and other products.

Jeffery Long, of Jeffery Long Designs, is an artist and creator who will be selling goods at this year’s Christmas at Crossroads. Jeffery has been a part of the Holiday Bazaar for five years.

“It’s a wonderful atmosphere with a gorgeous venue,” says Jeffery. “There is a true excitement for the upcoming Christmas season.”

Jeffery sells art with the other vendors at the Stables. His line of aroma candles, Vintage Aroma, is a popular item each year. Jeffery and other artists will bring new products this year that attendees can be excited about.

“We have a new clothing line that has been selling really well,” says Jeffery. “Simple Blessings carries t-shirts for infants, children and women. The shirts highlight my art and who I am as an artist.”

Catherine’s Market, Russell Crossroads’ market and grocery, will be open all weekend with gifts and goodies for the family.

Additionally, Springhouse restaurant will be open for dinner on Friday and Saturday evening.

Christmas at Crossroads is an entertaining event for the family to enjoy this holiday season. Plan your trip to see the charming decorations and explore the artisan wares, delicious foods and beautiful scenery at Russell Crossroads.