Delta Cultural Center Holiday Open House Brings Community Together
The Delta Cultural Center held its annual Holiday Open House and Bake Off on December 6 at the DCC Depot Museum in Helena, drawing neighbors to a morning of music, food sampling, and holiday displays. The event highlighted local culinary traditions, offered opportunities for community connection, and underscored public health and accessibility considerations for future gatherings.
On Saturday morning the Delta Cultural Center hosted its Holiday Open House and Bake Off at the DCC Depot Museum, 95 Missouri Street in historic Helena. The event opened at 10 a.m., with contestants and staff on site earlier to prepare exhibits and entries. Contestants were asked to set up by 9:30 a.m. so staff could assist. Registration for competitors had closed the previous Friday, December 5 at 4 p.m., with forms made available at the DCC Visitor Center, 141 Cherry Street.
The bake off featured three judged categories, cake, pie, and a newly labeled Specialty category that included items such as cookies and butter rolls. Judging took place between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., and after judging visitors were allowed to sample entries and cast votes for a People s Choice Award. Winners were announced between 12:30 p.m. and 1 p.m. The depot was decorated for the season and musical entertainment rounded out the program, creating a family friendly atmosphere for residents and visitors.
Beyond the festive atmosphere, the event carries practical implications for the Phillips County community. Small cultural gatherings support local identity and bring foot traffic to downtown Helena, helping local businesses during the holiday season. For older adults and others at risk of social isolation, these in person opportunities offer important social connection that contributes to mental and emotional wellbeing.
Public health considerations were also relevant. When food entries are shared with the public, questions arise about safe food handling, clear allergen labeling, and hand hygiene. Public health guidance recommends visible precautions during tasting activities, including signs about allergens and easy access to hand washing or sanitizer, to protect people with allergies and those with compromised immune systems.
As community organizations plan similar events, attention to accessibility and inclusion can broaden participation. The Delta Cultural Center made staff available to assist contestants on site, and residents seeking more information can contact Candace Dolls, Education Director, at 870 338 4350 or via the Delta Cultural Center contact email. The holiday open house offered a reminder that cultural celebration and public health are linked, and that local investment in inclusive community events strengthens civic life in Phillips County.
