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December 2025
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Community Invited to Free After-Christmas Meal on December 27

Local residents are invited to gather and celebrate the season at a free After Christmas Meal on Friday, December 27, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will take place underneath the library, directly across from Domino’s.

Organizers are offering a warm, welcoming space for anyone in the community to enjoy a hearty meal—at no cost. The event’s message, “Fill your belly and your soul,” reflects the spirit of Christmas and the belief that Jesus is the reason for the season.

Free event that includes great food, good company, and an opportunity to share in fellowship as the holiday week comes to a close.

Gordonsville Police Department to Host Family Holiday Event Featuring “The Mean One”

GORDONSVILLE, Tenn. — Families in Gordonsville are invited to kick off the holiday season with a festive community event on December 19th, as the Gordonsville Police Department hosts an evening of fun at the Gordonsville Civic Center.

The free event will run from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and offers residents the chance to meet local police officers, enjoy holiday treats, and snap photos with a special seasonal guest — the “Mean One” himself, inspired by the classic green Christmas character, the Grinch.

Visitors are encouraged to bring their phones for photos, as the Grinch will be available for meet-and-greets throughout the evening.

To add to the celebration, the department will be providing hot chocolate and donuts while supplies last, offering families a warm treat on a winter evening.

Organizers emphasize that the event is completely free and designed to strengthen community connections while spreading holiday cheer. The Gordonsville Police Department hopes the gathering will give families a memorable chance to engage with officers in a positive, festive setting.

For anyone looking to enjoy a lighthearted holiday outing, the Civic Center will be the place to be on December 19th.

Statewide Waterfowl Seasons Open December 5- January 31

 

The second segment for Tennessee’s statewide 2025-26 waterfowl hunting season is open from Dec. 5 through Jan. 31, 2026. Shooting hours are one-half hour before sunrise until official sunset each day.

The daily bag limit is six ducks with species restrictions. Waterfowl hunters should review the season dates, license requirements, daily bag, and possession limits listed in the 2025-26 Tennessee Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping Guide. Hunters also need to review the Federal Regulations summary on page 58 in the guide.

Other migratory bird hunting seasons include the Canada goose season, which will run through Feb. 14. The sandhill crane season is Dec. 3 through Jan. 31. In the Southeast Crane Zone, it is closed Jan. 16-18 and resumes Jan. 19. The third segment of the mourning dove season is Dec. 8-Jan. 15. For a full list of season dates, visit tnwildlife.org.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) once again reminds waterfowl hunters to inspect their boats to make sure all equipment is in good order. All boats operating between sunset and sunrise are required to display the appropriate lights. Hunters should have a properly fitted Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for each occupant.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is responsible for protecting, managing, and conserving fish and wildlife species for the benefit of Tennesseans and visitors. The Agency also maintains public safety through law enforcement and safety education on waterways.

Santa Visits Carthage Junction Depot December 13th

 

Santa will be visiting the Carthage Junction Depot on Saturday, December 13 from 10-4 for children young and old to whisper their Christmas wishes and take pictures. While you wait for your chance to talk to the big guy, be sure to check out the entries to the Gingerbread House competition.

Smith County Hometown Movie Night Brings Holiday Cheer to the Ag Center

Smith County is kicking off the Christmas season with a heartwarming community tradition: Hometown Movie Night at the Ag Center! Families, friends, and neighbors are invited to come together on Friday, December 5th for an evening of festive fun centered around the beloved holiday film The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.

The Ag Center will open its doors at 5:30 p.m., welcoming guests with live Christmas music to set the mood for a cozy and joyful night. Attendees can mingle, find comfortable seats, and soak in the cheerful atmosphere as the holiday spirit fills the venue.

The featured movie, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, will begin promptly at 6:30 p.m. Known for its humor and heartfelt message, the film follows a lively group of children whose mischievous antics lead to an unforgettable Christmas pageant. Its themes of compassion, community, and the true meaning of Christmas make it a perfect choice for audiences of all ages.

To make the night even sweeter, Movie Night will offer complimentary hotdogs, popcorn, hot chocolate, and classic movie snacks—all free of charge. The event is proudly promoted as FREE FOR ALL, ensuring that every member of the community is welcome to join in the festivities regardless of age or background.

Decorated in bright reds, festive greens, and gold stars, the promotional artwork reflects the spirited nature of the evening. The imagery captures the youthful energy of the film’s characters and evokes the warmth and fun of the holiday season.

Whether you’re looking to start a new family tradition or simply enjoy a nostalgic holiday film with neighbors, Smith County Hometown Movie Night at the Ag Center promises to be a memorable celebration of community and Christmas cheer. Mark your calendars, bring your loved ones, and get ready to enjoy a magical holiday evening—together.

Carthage Junction Depot Gingerbread House Competition

 

 

The Carthage Junction Depot is hosting its second annual Gingerbread House Competition. Entries will be accepted at the Depot on December 7 and 8th from 3:30-5pm or by appointment. Houses must be edible and can be no larger than one person could carry.  There will be a prize for winners in youth and adult categories. An exhibit of entries will be open to the public on December 13 from 10-4. Winners will be announced the day of the event. Santa will also be present for free photos with children young and old. This event is generously sponsored by Robin Underwood, real estate agent of Underwood Hometown Realty.

The Carthage Junction Depot presents monthly art events  to promote the arts in our community and to feature the creative talent of those who call our area home. The Depot is located at 185 Gordonsville Hwy, Brush Creek (right next to the Crump Paris ball park).

Celebrate the Season with Santa and a Festive Snow Globe Display on Dec 13th

Santa will be here to take pictures and to hear your Christmas wishes! Bring the whole family for a magical visit and capture memories that will last for years to come.

While you’re here, be sure to explore the Display of entries in the Snow Globe Competition—a charming showcase of creativity and festive holiday spirit.

This event is FREE and open to the public on Saturday, December 13th from 10 AM to 4 PM!

Location:
Carthage Junction Depot
185 Gordonsville Hwy, Carthage, TN 37030

Come enjoy the holiday magic with us. Merry Christmas!

Gordonsville Church to Host Community Food Giveaway on November 20

GORDONSVILLE — The Gordonsville Church, located at 120 E Main St, is extending a helping hand to local families in need by hosting a community food giveaway on November 20. The event will begin at 9:30 a.m. and is open to anyone seeking assistance.

Organizers say the giveaway is part of the church’s ongoing commitment to supporting the community, especially during times when many households face increased financial strain. Families are encouraged to arrive early, as food will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

The church welcomes all who need a little extra help and hopes the event will offer not only nourishment but also a sense of community and care.

For more information, residents may contact Gordonsville Church directly.

Schedule of 2025 Christmas Parades in Smith County and Surrounding Areas

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Smith County and the Upper Cumberland area! As we continue into the Christmas season, several area Christmas Parades will be held for the public to enjoy!

Look below to see a list of other Christmas parades happening in and around the Upper Cumberland:

  • Gordonsville – Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.
  • Carthage – Sunday, December 7, 2025 at 4:30 p.m.
  • Smithville – Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.
  • Lafayette – Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 1:00 p.m.
  • Watertown – Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 3:00 p.m.
  • Woodbury – Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.
  • Red Boiling Springs – Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.
  • Lebanon – Sunday, December 7, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.
  • Liberty – Sunday, December 7, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.
  • Alexandria – Sunday, December 13, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.
  • Hartsville – Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.
  • Mt. Juliet – Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 11:00 a.m.

Know of any more Christmas parades in the area? Let us know! Send us a message on Facebook with the location, date, and time of the parade, and we will add it to our list!

Tennessee Tech’s Appalachian Center for Craft to host annual Holiday Festival on Nov. 22

A guest makes a glass-blown ornament at a previous Appalachian Center for Craft Holiday Festival workshop

 

Tennessee Tech University’s Appalachian Center for Craft invites the community to the Annual Holiday Festival on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The event, held at the Craft Center’s Smithville campus, will feature free crafts for kids and guests of all ages, short workshops in glass, clay, wood and fibers studios, live music, and a discount in the retail gallery.
The kids’ craft area will include printmaking, beading, weaving and collage activities. In addition, free drop-in projects for all ages will happen in the clay studio, metals studio (ages 15+), and cafe. Guests can stop by the Craft Center lobby for a full schedule of activities and information. Supplies are available while materials last and minors must be accompanied by an adult guardian at all times.
Short workshops in glass, clay, fibers and wood are open for registration for adults 18+. Participants will learn craft techniques and take home handmade wares that make perfect gifts for loved ones. Workshops include blown-glass holiday ornaments, textured ceramic trays, shibori-dyed scarves, rolling pins, and woodturned pens. Workshops require paid registration and are open to participants of all skill levels. Visit the Craft Center website for registration and more information, including workshop times and descriptions. Advanced registration is recommended due to limited seating; however, walk-ins may register in the lobby during the Holiday Festival for any remaining seats.
All weekend, Friday through Sunday, visitors can take advantage of a special Holiday Shopping discount in the Craft Center’s retail gallery. Handmade goods from local and regional artists will be 25% off, including cards, jewelry, ornaments, glassware, textiles, prints, paintings and more. The gallery is open on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
The Appalachian Center for Craft is located at 1560 Craft Center Drive in Smithville. Learn more and register for workshops at www.tntech.edu/craftcenter/holiday or call 931-372-3052.