Journal-News.com

HAMILTON — The Hamilton German Village Association's 16th annual Christmas Walk today includes a tour of private residences throughout the neighborhood.

Among the events scheduled for noon to 5 p.m. are music from Yuletide Brass, trolley rides and horse-drawn carriage rides. Scrooge and Mr. and Mrs. Bob Cratchit are among the characters who will be on hand.

"We'll have more holiday characters this year. I think this is going to be wonderful. They'll be strolling the area for hours, greeting people," said Ann Dennett, the event's chairwoman. "The Hamilton Freshman School will perform outside, too. I think it's just gonna be a real nice old-fashioned Christmas."

The freshman school is one of many local schools providing musical entertainment. Also participating will be Hayes Elementary Chorus, Lions Pride (Lincoln Elementary School) and Pierce Elementary School. Rhapsody In Blue will also make an appearance.

Other activities and attractions include Victorian filigree paper art, origami, a petting zoo, woodcarvers, a handbell choir, crafters, clowns and refreshments.

Entries in the fourth annual wreath contest will be displayed in the window of the William C. Wilks Carriage House. Mayor Don Ryan will award the prizes from 4:30 to

5:30 p.m.

Numbered signs designate buildings that will be open during the walk. The High Main Bridge ornaments will be for sale at locations on the Walk at a cost of $20 each. Events are free and open to the public. The Christmas Walk is sponsored by local businesses and corporations.

Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2179 or at mgambrell@coxohio.com.