Scotland will come alive again for Christmas in the Village

After a three-year absence, the town's holiday festivities have grown and will once again be celebrated Saturday.

New this year is a lighted Christmas parade featuring Santa Claus and more.

The parade -- which kicks off at 6 p.m. -- begins at the cemetery, travels down Main Street and wraps up at the Veteran's Monument where the traditional lighting of the memory tree will take place, explained Jami Corbin, vice president of the Scotland Historical Society.

It is during the lighting of the memory tree that loved ones are honored, she said. Anyone can purchase a $1 ribbon in honor of a special someone.

Also new to the holiday fun are lighted displays in Cady Grove.

"There are 10 displays that families in the area have individually purchased in memory or honor of someone," Corbin said, noting a nativity scene, lighted deer and more.

Keeping with tradition is Scotland's lighted home tour.

"We've done this in the past ... 2005 was the last year we had Christmas in the Village and we did have the home tour then," Corbin said.

The tour is scheduled from 3 - 5 p.m. and will feature the homes of Brian Barker, Bob and Carol Kiser, Danny and Janet Merkel, and Odell and Judy Wright. Cost is $5 and tickets are available for purchase at any of the homes.

The Scotland Hotel will also be open for self-guided tours and offer free hot cider and cookies. Non-profit vendors will be set up in the hotel.

"Come join us and celebrate the birth of Christ," Corbin said.

Also included in this year's fun:

* Kids can visit Santa from 2 - 5 p.m. at the barber shop.

* For profit vendors will be set up from 2-6 p.m. at the fire station.

* Scotland United Methodist Church will feature a reading of the Christmas story at 5:15 p.m. at the cemetery chapel. Free homemade cookies and hot chocolate will be available.

* Mansions in Heaven's youth group will have a live nativity scene from 3 to 5 p.m. next to the barber shop.

* Scotland Full Gospel Church will sell soups, sandwiches and desserts at fellowship hall.