Miller Minutes: The best part of Thanksgiving and details about the events that follow
What is the best part of Thanksgiving?
While this could be a conversation about food, traditions or activities, I wanted to take a slightly different approach. To me, the best part of Thanksgiving is how it invites us to look back upon our lives and express gratitude for what we have received.
More than that, it is a reminder to take stock of what we have, instead of focusing on what we don’t, and making those thanks known to those who matter.
Life is short. The people who surround you now will move from place to place in the business of life. The things and the people you have to give thanks for will change throughout your life, and even throughout the year. That is partly what makes this holiday so special, as new blessings will make their way into your life, even as frequently as the changing of seasons.
If a friend has let you lean on them for a while, thank them. If you received a promotion or a bonus, give back to someone else as a way of expressing gratitude. The more you share your blessings with others and express gratitude, the more likely you are to live a fulfilling life. That’s what I’ve learned, at least.
So besides the stuffing, the football game, the rolls and the camaraderie, I hope you’ll take a moment to express gratitude this holiday through the giving of your time, your praise, your talent or your treasure.
You can do any and all of those things this weekend in Butler County. And while you’re at it you can check out all of the amazing events going on, too.
Thursday
Butler Outdoor Club is having a Thanksgiving Day Hike starting at 9 a.m. Thursday along the Sunken Garden Trail at Moraine State Park, 225 Pleasant Valley Road, Portersville. The hike will be 3.5 miles long. After you pass the park office on Pleasant Valley Road, the parking lot, where the group is meeting, will be the first right turn.
Friday
Christmas celebrations in Saxonburg are starting off strong at 5 p.m. Friday with the vendors market, followed by the 7 p.m. holiday parade. Children will later be able to have cookies with Santa himself at the South Butler Community Library. You won’t want to miss these family-friendly festivities! For more information, visit the Facebook page.
Butler Art Gallery’s annual member show and sale will have an opening reception from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at the center, 344 South Main St. This is a great opportunity to shop for a unique gift for your family or friends. For more information, visit the center’s website, butlerartcenterandgallery.org.
Alameda Park is hosting its annual drive-thru holiday light show at the park until Dec. 25. Experience the magic and wonder of the season as you drive around with your family. The show is free to enjoy and runs from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the park, 184 Alameda Park Road. For more information, visit bcpr.recdesk.com.
Stroll through the festive winter wonderland known as Enchanted Lights every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until Dec. 29. The decorations and twinkling lights are sure to dazzle your whole family. So, head on down to 282 Rochester Road, Freedom, and purchase your tickets at enchantedlightspittsburgh.com.
Saturday
Remember to support your local businesses for Small Business Saturday. Consider a stroll down any of the county’s main streets.
Enjoy coffee, bagels, and learn about our county’s birds during the annual Christmas Bird Count at 10 a.m. Saturday in Succop Nature Park, 185 Airport Road. Beginner bird enthusiasts are welcome, and registration is required at aswp.org/events/13560.
Santa Claus is bringing Christmas cheer to Evans City! From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday — there will be holiday fun, food and more all over town. Then, at 7 p.m., the local Lions Club will host its annual Light Up Night on Main Street. Help them start the season by lighting the tree, and even have pictures and refreshments with Santa at the Evans City Area Volunteer Fire Department hall, 124 North Jackson St.
Light Up Mars lasts from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday in the borough’s downtown. See the annual tree-lighting, watch the parade, shop local vendors and try some good food. For more information, visit marsborough.com.
Butler’s Spirit of Christmas Parade starts at 5:30 p.m. on Main Street, and will consist of a flurry of performances, lights and spectacular wonder. For more information, visit butlerradio.com/spirit-of-christmas-parade/.
If you are interested in your event being featured in Miller Minutes, please email information to news@butlereagle.com.
