Tyrone is an animated community, especially at Christmas.
For the sixth holiday season, the Tyrone Regional Arts Council in conjunction with the Tyrone Chamber of Commerce has created animated window displays throughout the downtown area.
Walking through town on a snowy winter day, taking in all the sights and sounds of department store animated scenes is usually associated with the big city. Yet, right here in Central Pennsylvania, individuals can enjoy the same wonder these delightful windows instill.
Each scene is created from a combination of figures owned by the Chamber of Commerce and those loaned by a private collector. Members of the Tyrone Arts Council then arrange the figures into theme displays and add all the lighting and scenery to create a magical window.
A leisurely stroll along Tyrone’s main street allows individuals the opportunity to enjoy six vignettes. Beginning on Pennsylvania Avenue viewers are first greeted by Santa himself as he carefully checks his list while the elves feverishly fill the sleigh with packages.
“Santa’s Sleigh” is supported by The Daily Herald and located at the Herald office adjacent to the post office. If viewers have found Santa’s sleigh, then his workshop can’t be far away. Located in the window of Foxfire Gifts and Collectibles, “Santa’s Workshop” is a bustling mix of elves making toys, decorating trees, and even playing those new toy instruments. Across from Santa’s Workshop is a wonderful new addition to the window displays.
“Joy to the World”, which is supported by Jackson Hewitt Tax Services, celebrates the gift of Christmas felt around the world. The seven children, all dressed in ethnic costumes, were created by the students enrolled in the Sculpture and Design Class at Grier School for girls.
As viewers continue down Pennsylvania Avenue to the new library building, they should be sure to look in the main window for a holiday surprise. “The Gift of Reading” recreates the excitement of Christmas morning as three children anxiously open presents in front of the fireplace.
Turning onto Tenth Street be sure to walk quietly so as not to frighten the animals in the “Winter Woods”. Sponsored by Burley’s Fine Food and Spirits, this depiction of a woodland scene is full of busy animals enjoying their Christmas evening.
The animated adventure will end at Bankers Life and Casualty Company, adjacent to Gardner’s Candies, with a “Christmas Carol”. The songs of a child and her animal friends wish the viewer the happiest of holidays.
“We are very grateful to the business owners who allow us to use their space to continue this holiday tradition,” said Arts Council President Steven Stoner. “Their generosity helps to create a holiday spirit unique to our hometown.”
The Arts Council had two special elves this year as well in the form of Patricia and Dennis Etters. Owners of Foxfire Gifts and Collectibles, Patricia and Dennis volunteered to take a group of the elves and give them a much needed overhaul and cleaning. A doll maker by trade, Patricia used her many skills to touch up and repair faces, hair and clothing while Dennis worked on the motors.
“We are grateful for their Christmas spirit and contribution to our community,” Stoner added.
The windows are illuminated from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. The animation occurs during two time periods in the day: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Additional information on arts activities in Tyrone can be obtained by calling the ARTS LINE at 684-ART2.
