North Hills communities hosting 'safe' alternatives to help jump start holiday spirit

The coronavirus pandemic has forced communities to abandon traditional public events such as tree lighting ceremonies and concerts for the holidays.

But communities in the North Hills are still working to spread a little holiday cheer with safe activities for families.

McCandless is hosting a two-part event dubbed “Make McCandless Merry and Bright.”

Homeowners and businesses are invited to pull out all the stops while decorating their homes for the holidays this year and submit photographs of their work for a video being created by students studying TV production at North Allegheny High School.

Residents are encouraged to leave their homes lighted from 5 to 9 p.m. so neighbors can drive through the community to view the displays.

The town also is sponsoring a virtual Family Fun Night on Dec. 12 from 7 to 8 p.m. featuring games, stories and an appearance by Santa.

The deadline to register for a limited number of openings available for the event is Dec. 7.

Marshall Township

Marshall Township will host a Holiday Lights Scavenger Hunt throughout the township Dec. 12.

Earlier this month, the township asked residents to identify some of the unique displays they were creating at their homes to help brighten the holiday season.

Before the scavenger hunt starts, the township will post a list of various items — including half-dozen gnomes — that have been hidden in some of the displays for residents to “hunt.”

The list will be posted on the township website and its Facebook page.

While residents are driving around viewing the displays, they can stop by Altmyer Barn to view the township’s holiday light display.

Santa will be at the barn from 5 and 7 p.m. to greet guests and hand out treats.

Families will be able to speak with Santa but must remain in their vehicles.

The barn is in Altmyer Park located at the intersection of Wexford-Bayne Road and Cole roads.

Hampton Township

Hampton Township is playing host to an event featuring a fireworks show and a visit from Santa on Dec. 3 at Community Park.

The Holidays in Hampton Santa Tour kicks off at 7 p.m. with a fireworks display from the soccer field.

After the show, Santa Claus and his faithful reindeer Rudolph will ride around the park in a fire truck.

Because of the coronavirus pandemic, personal photos with Santa will not be permitted.

North Hills School District

The North Hills School District is hosting a drive-thru light display at the high school/middle school campus from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 3.

The decorations and light displays are being designed and created by student clubs, schools and organizations from elementary through high school.

The students also are seeking donations of new and gently-used strands of lights, which can be dropped off in collection boxes at the entrance to all school buildings.

The event is free, but donations are being collected to help needy families during the holidays.