Festive atmosphere in town Saturday

Published 3:30 pm Monday, November 10, 2008

Another picture-perfect fall day in a small town brought a big variety of activities for citizens and visitors to enjoy in Greenville.

As Greenville’s “Saturdays in November” continued, folks had the chance to check out classic cars and modern racers, learn about the history of the city, sample delicious baked goods and shop ’til they dropped to get a head start on the holidays.

A crowd filled Confederate Park Saturday morning as car buffs took a gander at the vintage vehicles on display. Among them were a gleaming bronze and white 50s-era Chevy with tail fins, an old-style fire engine red Volkswagen convertible bug and, for those who feel the need for speed, a race car from the Avenger Speedway.

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Another historic walking tour of some of Greenville’s landmarks kicked off at 10 a.m. , as did a big pre-holiday bake sale at Saint Thomas Episcopal Church.

Two of Greenville’s locally owned shops, Karen Rainey Interiors on Commerce St. and Grayson’s of Greenville on Fort Dale Road truly decked the halls for their Holiday Open Houses.

“Isn’t this just gorgeous? Karen does a great job,” said Petie Cureton, who was helping with the open house at Rainey’s business.

The Commerce St. boutique was a veritable winter wonderland of dazzling themed trees, a variety of nativities and other holiday décor items. Christmas music softly played in the background while visitors enjoyed sweet tea and Christmas tree-shaped cheese straws.

“This really does help put you in the holiday spirit, doesn’t it?” said Burchie Crosby with a smile as she browsed among Rainey’s well-stocked store.

Plenty of year-round items to beautify the home were evident as well, including colorful canvases by Butler County artist Elizabeth Reid displayed on the mellowed brick walls; plush bead-trimmed pillows, candles, lamps, and much more beckoned guests to take a look.

At Grayson’s of Greenville, Marilyn Grayson and her crew had created an equally festive atmosphere for their shoppers as they busily wrapped gifts.

Along with glittering holiday ornaments and home décor, Grayson also offered items from stocking stuffers to prized presents.

Floral “girly” tools, the latest in wallets and handbags, bath and body items, antique silver items. fun jewelry and much more were all on display .

Like Rainey, Grayson also showcases the work of local artists, including Megan Scofield, Shirley Roberson and others.

A crewel-work Christmas stocking created by Cemira Powell is also on display at Grayson’s, with chances being sold for a very worthy cause – the Butler County Humane Society.

Shopper Dr. Jean Thompson was thrilled with the gifts she found inside the Fort Dale Road boutique.

“I’ve found some great presents for Christmas,” Thompson enthused as she exited the shop Saturday afternoon with armfuls of gaily-wrapped packages.

“Saturdays in November” continues this weekend with the 10 a.m. walking tour, a “How To” Bow Tying Class at the Main Street offices, and the return of country talent John Berry with his “Holidays and Hits” Tour at 7 p.m. Saturday night at the Ritz Theatre.

For more information about “Saturdays in November,” contact Main Street Director, Nancy Idland at 3254-2802.