Muskego's Country Christmas

A lion, a grinch, a cockroach, a monkey and many more incompatible characters  lined up at the starting line for the first-ever mascot Christmas Gift Dash at Muskego's Country Christmas Saturday last November.

Divided into two relay teams, they raced to see who could get a pile of oversized Christmas gifts under the Christmas tree at the Muskego Settlement Center, S8074 Racine Ave.

 The parade typically steps off at 1 p.m. at Janesville Road and heads down Pioneer Drive to the Settlement Center. Local businesses and organizations are encouraged to participate through sponsorship and or participation in the parade.

Settling in for the party

• After the parade and Christmas Gift Dash, the Settlement Center was the place to be from 2 to 5 p.m.

• A visit with Santa Claus is part of the event, and parents who bring their cameras were be able to get shots of their little ones whispering their hearts' desires into his ear.

• At the reindeer area, a professional photographer captures the moments at hand.

• History of Muskego prevails on the grounds and historical talks focus on old Muskego in the Wollman House.

• Music performed by local choirs and artists and students from the area are always a treat. A puppet show and "Live Nativity" are presented by Muskego Apostolic Tabernacle.

• For those who want to take in the happy scene in fine fashion, there are carriage rides, haywagon rides and kiddie train rides, for a fee.

All through the celebration, plenty of food is be available - from snacks and treats to substantial sandwiches, holiday wine and beer. Also, a Candy Shoppe will likely do a brisk business all afternoon.

The merriment concluded with a tree lighting at 4:45 p.m.

AT A GLANCE

WHAT: Muskego's Country Christmas

WHEN: 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 17th

WHERE: Muskego Settlement Center, S8074 Racine Ave., with a 1 p.m. parade down Pioneer Drive from Janesville to the Settlement

COST: free