Old Fort Rallies Together to Reignite Holiday Spirit After Hurricane Devastation

This Christmas season, the spirit of community and resilience shines brightly in Old Fort, North Carolina, as the town prepares to celebrate the holidays with a renewed sense of hope and unity. Following the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene in late September, which left the town's cherished holiday decorations in ruins, local residents and businesses have rallied together to restore the festive spirit just in time for the upcoming Christmas parade on December 14. The destruction caused by the hurricane was a significant blow to Old Fort, as Mayor Pam Snypes noted at a Board of Aldermen meeting in October. The town’s decorations, although aging, were all that the community had. In the aftermath of the storm, the town reached out for help, asking for donations to replace the beloved decorations that had been lost. In response to the call for assistance, a wave of generosity has swept through the community. Mayor Snypes expressed gratitude for the outpouring of contributions from various vendors and community members. Among the notable donations, the TJ & Riggins Show podcast and radio show stepped in with new lights and garland to adorn the town’s poles. They will also provide a food truck at the parade, offering a festive meal of ham, sides, cornbread, and apple pie—all free for attendees. First Presbyterian Church of Marion contributed new "Merry Christmas" signs and 100 fresh-cut Christmas trees, which will be given away after the parade. The church choir from First Freewill Baptist is set to bring holiday cheer with a special performance. Additionally, a handmade Nativity scene, created by Dave Brubaker and his family from Raleigh, will be a new highlight in the town’s mini park, prominently featuring the word "HOPE." This heartfelt installation was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Brubaker's Bible study group. To complete the festive atmosphere, the Rev. Jerry Lewis and his outreach from Grace Community Church procured a 12-foot Christmas tree for the annual lighting ceremony following the parade. The parade, which will commence at Old Fort Elementary School and wind through the town, promises to be a joyous occasion, with a tree lighting ceremony to follow in the mini park. The Mountain Gateway Museum and Arrowhead Gallery are also planning special events to engage the community in the holiday festivities. The Old Fort Business Association has organized additional activities to ensure a lively atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. Mayor Snypes encouraged everyone to attend, emphasizing the importance of coming together to celebrate amidst the challenges faced by the town. “So, as you see, Old Fort's Christmas celebration will continue this year,” she stated. “Maybe not what it was before the storm, but we are determined to move forward, and these blessings from kind-hearted folks give us the opportunity to do so.” The resilience of Old Fort's community is a testament to their ability to come together in the face of adversity, ensuring that the spirit of Christmas remains alive and well in their hearts and homes. This year’s holiday celebrations may look different, but they carry with them a renewed sense of hope, unity, and the promise of brighter days ahead.