Being one of Warrenton’s most popular events, Gumdrop Square is an annual appearance that gets the whole community involved.

Students have the opportunity to attend and participate in this event in more ways than you think. From the Christmas Parade on Nov. 31 to the end of the “Santa’s Secret Shop” at Gumdrop Square on December 17th, the event is a blast for the whole family.

“I remember when they brought out the horses,” junior Makenzie Simonton said. “It is by far my favorite part of the parade.”

There are many parts of this event that students can’t wait to see.

“I can’t wait,” senior Hannah Hunt said. “I look forward to the annual lighting of the Christmas tree every year.”

For some students, this is their first time experiencing the Gumdrop Square fun.

“I haven’t been to the event before,” junior Lee Phillips said. “I’m looking forward to going for the first time with my family this year.”

Memories are made each year when families and students go out to Warrenton to participate in the holiday spirit.

“When I was little, I got my parents a gift,” senior Kaylee Duckett said. “I was so excited because it was from Santa’s Workshop.”

There are also moments that we fondly reminisce about.

“My favorite part of the Christmas parade was probably the tree,” junior Scott Drotos said. “It’s so awesome because it glows and it’s so tall!”

Not only is it a fun experience, the Christmas Parade is also a big event for organizations to get their names out there through many separate means. This gives students the opportunity to participate in the parade and all of the events.

“I’m going to participate by marching in the parade to promote my troop,” senior Joshua Otten said. “We’re going to decorate a truck and carry banners and flags behind it.”

Events like these can be great opportunities for students to get involved in a heavily anticipated public event.

“I’m in the Christmas Parade as part of the Kettle Run Marching Band,” junior Zach Pursell said. “It was and will be a great time.”

Some people have been long-time supporters of the event as well.

“I’ve participated in Gumdrop Square through the Christmas choir since I was in fourth grade,” junior Jackson Rolando.

Students have found many ways to serve their community and organizations by participating in Gumdrop Square.

“I remember that dollar gift shop that opened next to the court house,” junior Tristan Beddingfield said. “Every year I got presents for my family from that place.”

This is a simple gesture that goes a long way to the recipients. Isn’t that what the holiday season is all about, making a positive impact on others? Whether spreading goodwill to others by supporting this community-wide event or volunteering in it, Gumdrop Square is a celebration of kindness.