Christmas around the area

"ELDON — The Christmas spirit resounded in southeast Iowa this weekend with celebrations in cities all around.

In Eldon children started the day by making gingerbread houses from candies and frosting at the American Gothic House Visitors Center."

Gingerbread Wonderland Event at AGHC

Eldon— An old fashioned Christmas will be in full swing in the town of Eldon this weekend, and children of all ages are invited to create gingerbread houses at the American Gothic House Center this Saturday, December 8th from 2:00 – 4:00 PM. Graham crackers, candy decorations and gooey frosting along with adult helpers will be provided.

The “American Gothic” Santa with his red and white striped overalls, red blazer and cheery Mrs. Claus are waiting to pose for pictures with you indoors. Visitors are welcome to view the center’s main exhibit and seasonal “Misty Water-colored Memories” exhibit by Dr. R. H. Intress, a former Eldonean.

The gift shop with many American Gothic-themed items will be open to please you with Christmas cards, note cards, T-shirts, tea towels, sweatshirts, handcrafted items, prints and books about Grant Wood.

After you’ve visited the McHaffey Opera House Winter Tree Wonderland & Nativity Display and the Rock Island Christmas Depot with its trains, stop in to make and take a gingerbread house, have your photo taken and shop for that special someone.

Other events include a GATE Christmas dinner served at the KD Center from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, a special Christmas surprise downtown at the American Legion Building at 1:00 PM for kids of all ages and the Boy Scout Soup Supper at the KD Center from 5:00 – 7:00 PM.