There’s no place like home for the holidays.
No, we aren’t going to break into an a’capella version of Perry Como’s classic Christmas song, but rather use the line to showcase all that Highlands has going on this weekend.
First, Highlands School will be hosting its homecoming basketball games on Friday night. Making the trip up for the game will be our neighbors from West Oak High School, just across the South Carolina state line.
While the traditional homecoming festivities may look a little different here on the mountain, the objective is the same. It’s time to get out and support the home team and show pride in Highlands School.
Most high schools and universities celebrate homecoming during football season, traditionally with a rivalry game on the gridiron and a formal dance the following evening. Because Highlands does not field a football team, the homecoming celebration is moved to basketball season and normally played in early December.
The girls basketball game between the Highlanders and the Warriors will begin at 6 p.m. with the boys game to follow (approximately 8 p.m.). Between games the homecoming court will be introduced.
The homecoming dance will take place Saturday night at First Presbyterian Church. Anyone driving in the vicinity of the church should use extra caution as the area near the intersection of Main and 5th streets will undoubtedly be crowded with teens.
If the homecoming festivities aren’t enough to make you feel nostalgic, Saturday will also feature Highlands annual Olde Mountain Christmas Parade at 10 a.m.
A nod to Yule’s long gone, Highlands’ parade is a small town Christmas classic, featuring everything from marching bands, to live camels. The route takes the parade down Main Street as revelers line both sides of the road.
As always, Santa Claus will make an appearance to close out the parade before heading to Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park to meet children eager to divulge their Christmas wishes.
It’s easy to appreciate life in Highlands, and this weekend will certainly remind us all of why we love it here so much.