How many times have you seen a U.S. flag baking under a hot sun or stretched out in a brisk wind? The flag is considered a living symbol of the United States of America, but the fabric and thread that are the physical means of displaying love of country fade and wear under those conditions.
The 2025 Blaze of Lights festival--the 39th annual event--features many Bluffton traditions and a few new ways to celebrate the holiday season. The Blaze of Lights is coordinated by Jim Enneking and Rene Gabriel of the Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce with the Bluffton Cultural Affairs Committee and the support of many individuals and organizations. A list of sponsors is below.
Horse-drawn wagon rides return - Free and sponsored by GROB Systems
Free RTA Trolley rides-- the 4th year for this treat
Santa will visit with families in the little red house across from the Ream display; children may drop off letters to Santa through December 23
Hope Railway rides on Main St. - Free thanks to Ebenezer Mennonite Church
The After Blaze returns on Vine Street with a heated tent, food and beverages; live entertainment by Stedic Music is sponsored by CCR Realtors
SHOP SMALL SATURDAY
Before the Blaze, local businesses will be rolling out the red carpet for shoppers, and many will stay open late. The Chamber has collected the following special opportunities:
Thousands have seen the Ream Christmas display that originated on the Ream farm in 1938 and is now displayed each year at Christmastime on the Bluffton Presbyterian Church lawn. This story is about its founder, Harry Ream.
I first met Harry on October 22, 2001, when he had just become a resident at Richland Manor Nursing Home near Beaverdam. I was a volunteer there, meeting with men who were residents for a weekly meeting.
The Icon staff will be enjoying a pause from Thursday-Sunday, November 27-30. We'll still post breaking news, including sports. On Saturday, our top story will keep information about the Saturday, November 29 Bluffton Blaze of Lights at your fingertips! Please send news and advertising 24/7 to [email protected]. Happy Thanksgiving!
PLEASE TRY AGAIN, IF YOU ATTEMPTED TO TAKE THE POLL BEFORE 2:15 P.M. WEDNESDAY.
By a Thanksgiving Chef
Among the reasons to gather for Thanksgiving, the family or "friendsgiving" meal usually gets the most attention. Why the hype? What makes your taste buds the most excited among these traditional holiday dishes?
Bluffton Elementary School students gave the new artificial turf play and practice field located along Lawn Ave. a test drive prior to their Thanksgiving break. This photo captures most of the 80-yard-long space that is emblazoned with a Bluffton Pirate.
