It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas around Beckley homes for sale, and that means the return of two beloved local holiday traditions. Mark your calendars for these upcoming events.

• Appalachian Coal Town Christmas - Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, 513 Ewart Ave., Beckley 25801
  Celebrate Beckley's past and present at Appalachian Coal Town Christmas. Over the nearly 20-year history of this popular event, it's become a draw for both local residents and out-of-town visitors. HGTV featured Appalachian Coal Town Christmas in one of their Christmas specials that's been repeated several times, generating nationwide publicity.
  
  A stunning above-ground light display adds a festive touch to the underground tours and horse-drawn wagon rides. Other activities include caroling in the Coal Camp Church and "Color Play," the current interactive exhibit at the Youth Museum. Christmas craft-making will be held in the Museum's classroom, and of course, Santa will be appearing each night.
  
  Check items off your gift list with one-of-a-kind selections such as jewelry, unique coal creations, and homemade fudge from the Gift Shop and onsite vendors. Start your own tradition by making a Boppin' Head Family Christmas DVD for only $5. Appalachian Coal Town Christmas takes place November 29-30 and December 6-7 from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. each day. Admission is $12 for adults and $6 for kids. 
  
  
• Beckley Annual Christmas Parade - Park Middle School, 212 Park Ave., Beckley 25801
  No holiday is official without a parade, and the Beckley Annual Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 7 provides entertainment for all members of the family. This year's themes are "Home for the Holidays" and "Christmas Characters." Participants include floats, walking and animal units, classic cars, and marching bands. Trophies and cash prizes will be awarded to the best overall entrant and tops in four float categories. Santa himself takes pride of place at the rear of the procession.
  
  Floats and vehicles line up at Park Middle School, while all walking entrants gather at Beckley Intermodal Gateway Plaza. The parade route begins down Park Avenue and ends at Leslie C. Gates Place. Start time is 11 a.m. Generally, the parade goes on rain or shine, but in case of inclement weather, the alternate date and time is Sunday, December 8 at 4 p.m.

With years of experience working in the area, our real estate agents have the inside scoop on all the activities and features that make Beckley such a great place to live. Contact us at Old Colony, REALTORS® for friendly and professional help buying or selling your home.