Anyone who has lived in Highlands for a long period of time probably has more appreciation for January and February than the guests who visit during the winter.
Over the past week or two there has not been much happening around town, and to be honest, it’s refreshing. Taking a few weeks to just breathe deep and enjoy getting from the Post Office to Mountain Fresh with little interruption may seem like a small pleasure, but after months of hustle and bustle it’s a welcome break.
That’s not to say there is nothing of interest happening in Highlands during the coldest months. The town ice skating rink is open daily, and it has seen strong attendance again this winter. The swimming pool, which is heated and indoors, has also seen a boost in popularity as users transition away from running in the single-digit temps, and turn toward the comfortable swimming conditions for exercise.
Several area businesses host entertainment throughout the week, whether it be blue-grass on Wednesdays, a DJ on the weekend, or a Salon Series concert with a popular regional musician. Hudson Library has programs going on throughout the week as well for learners of all ages, and Highlands School sports are in full swing with boys and girls basketball, and swim-ming at the midpoint of their seasons.
If you are in the mood for a fun winter outing, there are a few options on the horizon. First, the Highlands Chamber of Commerce is bringing back its annual “SnowFest” on Jan. 27-28 at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park. The event features a snow slide, ice skating, an inner tube merry-go-round, and snow-ga (an adaptation of yoga). SnowFest is free and open to the public.
The same weekend, the Highlands Performing Arts Center will host “Catapult” a family-friendly stage show that is sure to boggle the mind of the audience, just as it did the judges on America’s Got Talent. That performance is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 27 at 7:30 p.m. For more information, or to buy tickets, visit highlandsperformingarts.com.
Get out and enjoy all Highlands has to offer in January, because Easter will be here be-fore you know it, and the quiet times will be over.