Local family tradition lights the way

UNION CITY, IND. — Larry Amspaugh loves Christmas.

“People don’t understand the meaning of Christmas,” he said

Which is why he started and became president of “A Community Christmas” 11 years ago. It has become a family tradition, hosting about 4,000 cars a year. Opening night took place November 25, at Harter Park, in Union City, Indiana.

Activities began at 5 p.m., including Christmas caroling, led by “Play It By Ear” Barbershop Quartet and a much-needed bonfire to cut the chill. People enjoyed hot chocolate, cider and cookies. At 5:30 p.m., Union City, Indiana and Ohio, Police and Fire Departments escorted Santa and Mrs. Claus from Marsh Supermarket on E. Elm Street to Harter Park. Upon their 6 p.m. arrival the light display became live.

Preparation for the event is no easy task. According to Amspaugh, the non-profit event utilizes more than 5 million lights and about 20 volunteers. The work to set up begins in September and the take – down lasts through June. It is completely dependent on donations.

Betsy Wade, of Union City, has made “A Community Christmas” her family tradition. She has brought her seven children the last few years.

“I like the kids’ reactions when they see Santa Claus,” she said. “It’s their first time for the bonfire.”

For more information about A Community Christmas, visit www.facebook.com/UnionCityNow/.

The 11th Annual “A Community Christmas” opened in Union City, Indiana, November 25. More than 5 million lights illuminated the way for car and foot traffic traveling in Harter Park.

https://www.dailyadvocate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/web1_community-christmas1PRINT.jpgThe 11th Annual “A Community Christmas” opened in Union City, Indiana, November 25. More than 5 million lights illuminated the way for car and foot traffic traveling in Harter Park. Carolyn Harmon | The Daily Advocate

Mrs. Claus and Santa arrived at Harter Park, in Union City Indiana, for the 11th annual “A Community Christmas”, November 25. They are available Fridays and Saturdays through December 17, from 6 – 9 p.m.

https://www.dailyadvocate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/web1_community-christmas-2-PRINT.jpgMrs. Claus and Santa arrived at Harter Park, in Union City Indiana, for the 11th annual “A Community Christmas”, November 25. They are available Fridays and Saturdays through December 17, from 6 – 9 p.m. Carolyn Harmon | The Daily Advocate

From left “Play It By Ear” Barbershop Quartet members Alan Wasson, Steve McCoy, Dennis Pratt and Dave Kelly entertained the crowd with Christmas carols at the 11th Annual “A Community Christmas” in Union City, Indiana, November 25.

https://www.dailyadvocate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/web1_community-christmas-3-PRINT.jpgFrom left “Play It By Ear” Barbershop Quartet members Alan Wasson, Steve McCoy, Dennis Pratt and Dave Kelly entertained the crowd with Christmas carols at the 11th Annual “A Community Christmas” in Union City, Indiana, November 25. Carolyn Harmon | The Daily Advocate