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Miller Minutes: ‘I hope you’re working up an appetite for this weekend’

The Butler Youth Baseball float wishes parade attendees a merry Christmas during the Spirit of Christmas parade along Main Street in Butler on Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. Butler Eagle File Photo

Whether you plan on celebrating “Friendsgiving” or Thanksgiving, I hope you’re working up an appetite for this weekend.

I was never a fan of Thanksgiving, because I don’t like turkey. But this past weekend I had the privilege to help make one, as well as all the sides, and it helped me appreciate the science and artistry behind cooking.

It’s called culinary arts for a reason — cooking is an art! While I was kneading dough and basting the bird, I was also struck by the fact we will be in full Christmas mode this coming weekend. That opens up a whole slew of baking creativity opportunities!

Needless to say, this upcoming Thanksgiving has me hopeful about my culinary future and excited to express my gratitude for the past year. Whether you’re celebrating with true family or found family, I hope you’ll take the opportunity to express gratitude for them through words and even treats.

Parade participants throw candy during the Spirit of Christmas parade along Main Street in Butler on Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. Butler Eagle File Photo

If you’re looking for ways to walk off the tryptophan, look no further than the main streets of Butler County. See what we’ve got going on below.

Friday

Stroll through the festive winter wonderland known as Enchanted Lights every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until Dec. 30. The decorations and twinkling lights are sure to dazzle your whole family with shows starting at 5:30 p.m. Head on down to 282 Rochester Road in Freedom, and purchase your tickets at enchantedlightspittsburgh2025.santaticket.com.

Bundle up and participate in one of the most beloved holiday traditions around: Saxonburg’s holiday parade. Drink cocoa, see floats and meet Santa Claus at 7 p.m. Saturday on the borough’s Main Street. For more information, visit experiencebutler.com.

Saturday

Remember: Butler County is full of small businesses you can support on Small Business Saturday. Head to your nearest community Main Street to take advantage of the sales and shop local!

Get started on your holiday gifting this Saturday at the Shop Small Craft and Vendor Sale at the Sons & Daughters of Italy, 338 S. Main St. in Butler. Sales from local artisans last from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit the event Facebook page for more information.

Trombones on Ice is an unforgettable Christmas tradition full of music and spirit. Head to 226 Mercer St. in Harmony, for the event starting at 2 p.m. Saturday. Visit the event Facebook page for more information.

The tree was decorated and ready to brighten the sky at the Lite Up Night in Mars on Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. Butler Eagle File Photo

Light Up Mars will feature a holiday market, tree lighting, parade and more. Families will have a full evening of Christmas Joy around the borough starting at 4 p.m. Saturday at the market. The tree lighting begins at 5:30 p.m. and the parade follows at 7:30 p.m. For a complete schedule, visit marsborough.com/light-up-mars.

Parade participants came in elaborate Christmas costumes during the Spirit of Christmas parade along Main Street in Butler on Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. Butler Eagle File Photo

Butler’s Spirit of Christmas parade is one you won’t want to miss. Floats start down Main Street at 5:30 p.m., but there will be pre-parade children’s activities starting at 2 p.m. in the parking lot on East Locust Street. For more information, visit butlerradio.com.

Evans City Light Up Night starts at 6 p.m. Saturday on the borough’s Main Street. Following a tree lighting, Santa will meet children for pictures and refreshments at the fire hall, 124 N. Jackson St. Visit experiencebutler.com for more information.

If you are interested in your event being featured in Miller Minutes, please email information to news@butlereagle.com.

Molly Miller is an Eagle correspondent.

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