Bayside spreads Christmas cheer

MANATEE COUNTY — It may not snow in Southwest Florida, but East County residents can bundle up on holiday fun and hit the slopes this week, as Bayside Community Church presents a Family Christmas Spectacular.

The five-day event includes an opportunity to sled down a 10-foot-tall, 30-foot-long hill, drink hot cocoa and sing Christmas carols, among other festivities.

“It’s the first time I’ve seen a (sledding) saucer since I was a kid up north,” Bayside Director of Events Gregg Ellery said, noting there will be two hills for sledding — one for adults and youth and one for younger children. “We also have a 50-foot miniature train (for children to ride). It looks like something out of Disney World.”

Festivities start at 6 p.m. Dec. 21-23, and at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Dec. 24, at Bayside, 15800 S.R. 64 E. Each day will begin with a 45-minute outdoor Christmas service that includes music and a Christmas message. Attractions, such as pony rides, sledding, train rides, crafts and a petting zoo, will open immediately following the service.

“It’s the same event every night,” Bayside Creative and Communication Coordinator Kristin Becnel said. “We wanted to make it very accessible for people. We want to make the community feel at home and feel welcome and really enjoy themselves.”

While most activities are being held outside, attendees also can head inside Bayside’s building to enjoy hot cocoa and cookies and to have their family pictures taken against a scene from New York City’s Central Park, complete with snow blowing in the background. Photos will be uploaded online so attendees can download them for free, Ellery said.

Bayside also will be providing tours of its facility for anyone interested to help alleviate uncertainties about visiting the church, Ellery said.

“(This event) is a great opportunity for us to reach out to the community and let them see the joy of Christ and also get a chance to see our facility and meet some Bayside people,” he said.

Contact Pam Eubanks at [email protected].

Christmas Spectacular
WHEN: 6 p.m. Dec. 21-23; 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Dec. 24
WHERE: Bayside Community Church, 15800 S.R. 64 E.
WEB: www.baysidecommunity.org

DONATION DRIVE
Attendees are being asked to bring donations of canned food to benefit The Food Bank of Manatee, as part of the event, although donations are not required.