March 29, 2024

Holiday Headquarters opens soon in Corning

CORNING – Christmas has arrived at the Corning Opera House Cultural Center. Holiday Headquarters is featuring more than 50 Christmas trees in all sizes with themed decorations by organizations, businesses and individuals. Plus the special features this year are a Nutcracker collection, nativity sets and villages. There are several opportunities for young and old to participate. A freewill donation is being taken to help with 2018 programs and building upkeep.

Before the lighted parade, starting at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, will be the grand opening until 8:30 p.m. This event has many unique features. They include the Christmas carol sing-a-long with Bobette Fife, “I Spy” game for youth, hot chocolate and the chance to win great prizes. The opera house will be announcing its 2018 show lineup with many opportunities to win tickets or T-shirt. The season pass will go on sale Nov. 27. Seven shows are included in the pass for $140 with a savings of $40.

At 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 1-2, will be the community Christmas Cantata with the adults and youth choirs performing, “Little Lion, Little Lamb” by Heather Sorenson. The cantata retells the Christmas story. Participants are from Lenox, Nodaway, Villisca, Stanton, and Corning. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. They can be purchased online at CorningOperaHouse.com, at State Bank of Brooks in Corning or by calling the opera house office at 641-418-8037.

Saturday, Dec. 2, is an open house from 9 a.m. to noon to view the trees and other items for a freewill donation. Also Jessica Wilson from Lone Arranger will be offering a free “make and take” ornament class at 11 a.m. for elementary students.

At 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 4, is LainyJane’s Board and Brush class. The $35 registration fee includes a 12” X 24” framed wooden sign, instructions, wine and refreshments. Join your friends for a night of painting and crafting by calling 712-621-4810 or messaging LainyJane’s on Facebook.

Thursday, Dec. 7, is the next Afternoon Delight program, featuring a Christmas sing-a-long and viewing of the Christmas trees, hot cocoa or cider and Sweet Desires Bakery treats. The public is invited and it costs $8 per person.

Saturday, Dec. 9, is an open house, plus Cookies and Canvas class for third grade and up. The open house is from 9 a.m to noon. The Cookies and Canvas class starts at 10 a.m. and is taught by Marie Sussman and cost $5 (to cover the canvas and cookies). The painting is of the Grinch and an ornament. Registration is recommended by calling 641-418-8037 or emailing corning.oh@corningoperahouseiowa.com.

At 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 17, is the monthly Opry Show with special guest, Brook Turner. The cowboy poet brings interesting stories along with his great talent and another opportunity to view the Christmas décor. The top-notch houseband accompanies the guest and costs $8 per person or $15 per couple. For your enjoyment, you may sit and listen or dance on the hardwood floor.

Arrange your group tour or call for an appointment to view the trees at other times. The decorations also make a very festive location for holiday parties. The Corning Opera House, located at 800 Davis Ave., features handicapped accessibility and a beautiful restored 1902 building.