All over Brownwood, volunteer groups are working to make this Christmas a highlight of the year. Like Santa’s elves preparing for the big day, Brownwoodians are cutting, painting, welding and wiring for the unveiling of the First Annual Christmas Under the Stars Festival scheduled for December the 4th and 5th.
Brownwood High School students have joined the community-wide effort by lending their skills to build wooden life-size character cut-outs. The characters have face openings, so people can take their pictures in them, making a fun Christmas photo. Mr. Danny Valdez’s Building Trades class cut out 12 wooden characters, of which the class favorite was the Grinch. When asked to help with the Christmas project, the students were working on their projects for the Skills USA Competition. “When I asked them if they wanted to take on this project, they all said yes and dropped their projects to do this,” said Mr. Valdez. “I thought that was very unselfish of them, and it shows the kind of men they will turn out to be.” In only three days, the class had the figures cut out.
From the Building Trades class, the characters traveled to Mrs. Kim Van Huss’ Art II & III classes, where they are currently being painted. “The students are having a good time. They love to do things for the community, and they can’t wait to get their photos taken in them at the festival,” said Mrs. Van Huss.
A big thank you to the Brownwood High School students and teachers for making the Christmas cut-outs! The community is invited to see the figures and all the other holiday activities at the Christmas Under the Stars Festival. The Festival will be Friday, Dec. 4, from 7-10pm, following the Jaycees Christmas Parade at 6pm. Saturday, Dec. 5, the Festival will be from 5-10pm. All events will be held at the Depot and Lehnis Railroad Museum Complex. Activities include Santa’s Workshops with projects for children, Star-lit Trail of Lights, Choo-Choo Christmas, music, food, and so much more. For more information on the Christmas Under the Stars Festival, contact the Brownwood Chamber at 325-646-9535 or see the events calendar at