TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Join Cherokee Nation in spreading holiday cheer this season with special events this December.
On Friday, Dec. 1, the tribe will host its annual “Christmas on the Square” event from 4 to 6 p.m., featuring letters to Santa, ornament decorating, hot apple cider, photos with Santa, and the official lighting of the Cherokee National History Museum on Capitol Square.
The event coincides with the Tahlequah Christmas Parade on Friday, which begins at 6 p.m.
On Saturday, Dec. 2, Cherokee Nation museums in Tahlequah will be participating in this year’s Cookie Stroll, hosted by the Tahlequah Main Street Association. Guests can purchase an official box from TMSA and stroll to downtown merchants, filling their boxes full of sweet treats from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Those visiting the square are encouraged to stop by the Cherokee National History Museum for a special exhibit on the first Cherokee Christmas, which took place in 1805 when Moravian missionaries were invited by Cherokee James Vann to his home in Georgia.
Moravian stars were made out of paper, and scriptures were written on scrolls to decorate the first Christmas tree in Cherokee Nation.
For more information on Cherokee Nation historical attractions and events, go online to www.VisitCherokeeNation.com.