Newton Citizen

Photo by Tori Boone

RUTLEDGE -- It'll be a down-home good time in downtown Rutledge this weekend as the town celebrates the 31st Annual Rutledge Christmas in the Country.

The event will take place Friday through Sunday and will feature arts and crafts, carriage rides, visits with Santa and more.

"Just come and enjoy the sights and sounds of an old-fashioned Christmas in the country," said Pam Jones, owner of Barn Raising Antiques and founder of the event. "Rutledge is a charming village with buildings dating back to the 1800s and it will all be decorated."

The event is free and open to all. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. City Hall will be transformed into the North Pole, and Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand for pictures from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday.

Rutledge City Park will be the setting for an arts and crafts festival and carriage rides. There will be a nominal fee for carriage rides. Regardless of what's in the weather forecast, it will be snowing in the park courtesy of a snow machine.

Downtown businesses will also offer refreshments and other special treats. Barn Raising Antiques will once again feature its famous snow tree, a Christmas tree with snow gently falling on its branches. Jerry Morrow, who grew up in Social Circle will be on hand Saturday and Sunday to sign his book, "A Yankee in Social Circle." Red Doors Studio will feature an artisan's market beginning Friday and running through Christmas. Local crafter Mary Sue Alexander will open her home to showcase and sell handmade gifts she and friends have prepared.

Other participants are Crossroads Antiques; Rutledge Hardware Co.; Yesterday's Cafe; The Caboose; Rockland Florist; Rutledge Frame Shop; Back to Wellness Chiropractic Clinic; and The Attic Antique Auctions and Consignment.

For more information on the event, call Jones at 706-557-2956.