Downtown Hazard Celebrates Christmas In A Small Town, Community Comes Together

Downtown Hazard pushed forward with its annual Christmas in a Small Town celebration on December 12, drawing families to The Triangle for free ice skating and Main Street for shopping, food vendors, inflatables, and new photo opportunities. Organizers canceled only a planned fireworks display because of the weather, and a vehicle lights parade continued as planned, keeping the evening lively even as heavy snow and cold blanketed the area.

The gathering showcased longstanding community traditions, including the giving tree on Main Street where children select one item per tree, and additional children focused activities placed around the festival footprint. The Appalachian Arts Alliance staged A Christmas Story The Musical at the Forum during the weekend, and the Perry County Fair Board debuted a new train purchased for community use. The train will be available for rental by local nonprofits and businesses, offering a potential new revenue stream for community groups and a family friendly amenity for future events. The Hazard Perry County Women’s Club Tour of Homes was postponed to December 21.

Public health and public safety were visible concerns as residents navigated icy sidewalks and cold temperatures to attend. Heavy weather forced the singular cancellation of the fireworks show, but the decision underscores broader questions about emergency planning for community events when winter storms strike. Access and mobility are central to those questions, particularly for older adults, people with limited transportation options, and low income families who rely on free or low cost local activities for holiday social connection.

Beyond the immediate festivities, the event illustrated how local gatherings support small businesses and nonprofits. Vendor booths and performances channel visitor spending and donations into the local economy and civic organizations. At the same time the weather exposed gaps in infrastructure and event planning that county officials and organizers may need to address to ensure safety and equitable participation in future events. As the season continues, community leaders face the task of balancing celebration with practical measures to protect health and maintain access for all residents.