Families filled Meeks Park on Saturday, Dec. 13, for the Union County Classic Christmas, a festive gathering that brought holiday cheer to Blairsville with sunshine overhead and plenty for kids to enjoy.
Organized by the Union County Recreation Department, the free event featured photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a surprise visit from the Grinch, live music, and classic treats like hot chocolate and popcorn.
Continue reading with a subscription.
North Georgia News — serving Union County since 1909.
Cancel anytime.
Children darted between activities, from a bouncy obstacle course and inflatable castle to face painting and a life-sized cardboard gingerbread house where markers were supplied and creativity encouraged.
A fire pit was set up and ready to go for the cooler temperatures often expected this time of year, though the mild weather meant it stayed mostly unused as families enjoyed the afternoon comfortably outdoors.
Tables and bleachers were arranged in front of the stage, creating a relaxed space for families to gather, visit and listen to music.
Union County Manager Tony Hughes was a constant presence throughout the event, helping to ensure everything ran smoothly. Hughes also took on one of the most popular roles of the day, serving as the tractor train engineer. At the eager request of young riders, he pulled a half-barrel train around the park at regular intervals, waving as he passed smiling parents and bundled-up spectators.
“I like the train the best because it goes really fast,” one young rider said, hopping off and already asking when the next ride would start.
Photo opportunities were plentiful throughout the park. Inside the Sorghum Hall, families posed in a staged Christmas scene, while a Snoopy-themed photo booth drew steady traffic from young fans.
Others took advantage of Meeks Park’s natural scenery, snapping pictures near Butternut Creek or on the wooden bridge that crosses it on the way to the historic grist mill, providing a picturesque holiday backdrop.
Nearby, Davy Henderson of Blairsville provided live music with guitar and vocals, filling the park with familiar Christmas tunes. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived in style aboard a fire truck before being escorted by tractor train to their decorated sleigh on the Sorghum Stage, greeted by applause and excited cheers.
The Grinch later appeared with his faithful dog, Max, quickly becoming a favorite stop for photos.
For parents, the afternoon offered a chance to slow down and enjoy the season together.
“It’s nice to have something free and local where the kids can just be kids,” one parent shared. “You don’t have to rush anywhere. You just enjoy being together.”
With clear skies, mild temperatures and a park full of laughter, the Union County Classic Christmas delivered exactly what it promised – a fun, joyful kickoff to the holiday season, made possible by community volunteers and a shared love for small-town traditions.
