Christmas decorations and entertainment are something else at Callaway Gardens outside of Pine Mountain, Ga.
A number of years ago my wife Linda and I decided that on our Thanksgiving trip we were going to visit the area and see what it was all about.
The first visit there and subsequent trips were exceptional.
On our first journey, we decided to participate in the March of Dimes fundraiser. Participants would pay the entrtance fee, but had to walk the five-mile route.
Hundreds, nay, thousands participate each year in the event. We saw children of all ages, from infants being pushed in strollers and small wagons, to the elderly enjoying the event with their children and grandchildren. It was great to not have to worry about motorized vehicles.
It seems the one-night event is a tradition for a lot of people.
That particular night, the skies were overcast, and there was a light drizzle that continued for the whole trip.
But it didn't matter. The decorations were exceptional. I especially enjoyed the stretch of road where white lights were everywhere, on the trees, bushes and strung across the the roadway. So simple, yet so breathtaking.
We subsequently went the following two years with our Georgia brood, but because of the small children involved, we decided to go on nights where we could ride the tram.
There is also a huge commercial area at the gardens which offers hundreds of gifts and decorating ideas, not to mention a variety of foods that were available for purchase.
The cost of the ticket for the nighttime event also allows people to return the next day to visit other areas of the gardens.
Next post: Dec. 7. 2010