The days until Christmas are counting down quickly, but many in Bradford are feeling the Christmas spirit early.
Various different aspects of the winter season can ignite the spirit of Christmas in a person. From the first snowfall to the streets decorated in Christmas lights, the Christmas spirit can be found in many places.
The Era asked locals on Facebook how they described the Christmas spirit and when do they know they are feeling it.
Rose Bond of Bradford is still waiting for one special moment to feel the Christmas spirit — and it’ll come at Christmas time.
“I know it’s Christmas when I see the look in the little ones eyes when they see Santa,” Bond said.
Dave Vanerstrom, also of Bradford, said he believes the Christmas season is reflected in the sounds of people laughing.
“It’s the laughter shared between adults, kids and everyone, that’s the Christmas spirit,” Vanerstrom said.
For Erik Austin of Bradford, all it takes is a little snow.
“It never quite seems like the holiday season until there’s a little snow on the ground,” he said. “And the Christmas tunes on the radio doesn’t hurt either.”
Many mentioned the annual Cruisin’ into Christmas parade as being the definitive moment that they feel the Christmas spirit, while others commented that the annual Old Fashioned Christmas event is the moment for them.
Dianne Barr, who moved to Florida from Bradford, commented that she’s had trouble feeling the Christmas spirit because Christmas in Florida is different than Christmas in Bradford. She mentioned the annual events and the snow being a big factor in raising her spirits for Christmas.
Beverly Sherman, who works with the Kids and Cancer Benefit of Bradford, commented that for her, it was a combination of the snow, Christmas lights and Christmas music. She added that the decorations at the Veterans Square on Main Street “are always beautiful to look at.”
Some may have plans to adopt a shelter pet as a gift for their children or for someone else, but Christine Taylor, executive director of the McKean County SPCA, cautioned against it in many cases.
“While we do have plenty of animals that need to find homes here, we don’t want to give people the wrong idea,” Taylor said. “They aren’t toys. They are a lifelong commitment.”
For those who feel they are committed to adopting an animal this holiday season and giving it a lifelong home, Taylor said that employees will be working Christmas Day.
