Are you ready to get your “Twinkle” on?

This week, the Newell Lodge elves are busy hanging thousands of twinkling lights throughout the beautiful, ancient live oak grove at the heart of this special place. The horses are being brushed, and Santa’s wagon is at the ready, polished and shined.

Won’t you please join us this Saturday, Dec. 22, from 6-8 p.m. for our 2nd annual, family-style “A Country Christmas” Celebration and festival of lights?

In this unique region, we’re woven together in an intricate basket of friends and family, faith and friendship. It’s a joy and pleasure to share the uplifting spirit of this season and this beautiful landscape with our community.

Christmas in the Okefenokee is always special – and a little bit different than anywhere else in the world.

At the Lodge, we celebrate this difference with our Festival of Lights. Children of all ages will want to greet Santa Claus, the guest of honor, who will be available for family photos and selfies. Festive seasonal music and “twinkle-toes” dancing will be hosted in the Pavilion.

Smoky oak embers await in the firepit, with marshmallow roasting and hot chocolate by the fire for children aged 12 and under. The curious who wish to explore will enjoy an open house in one of the guest cottages with servings of hot cider.

Plus, there will be short horseback rides under the twinkling skyscape for children. And family friend food and beverages will be served at Swampfire, our “backwoods bistro.”

Christmas at Newell Lodge is a time of great joy and connection to family and friends, across the generations. Though we’re a bit off the beaten track, the drive out here is worth it.  Without city lights to distract visitors, the overall effect of the lighted landscape inspires a sense of wonder and adventure.

Please join us to create wonderful memories to last a lifetime.

Glad Tidings of Comfort and Joy,

Kay

“A Country Christmas” Celebration and Festival of Lights will be Saturday, Dec. 22, from 6-8 p.m. at Newell Lodge, 661 Ozzie Rowell Road (try ‘Firehouse Road’ on GPS). Admission is $5 per person at the gate; children 12 and under receive complimentary marshmallows for roasting and their choice of hot chocolate or hot cider. Email newell.lodge@gmail.com for more information, or call Newell Lodge at (912) 496-2838.