We’re solidly into November, and, while the weather has not really offered much to indicate it, the calendar reminds us that the spirit of the holiday season is ready to shine brightly in communities throughout the Tri-State Area.

For those who enjoy being outdoors, the Rink at Franciscan Square will open for the season Wednesday. The area’s only outdoor ice-skating rink is made possible by the Franciscan University of Steubenville and the support of numerous area businesses and individuals, including Trinity Health System, the title sponsor.

Steubenville will help to welcome the holiday season on Nov. 26, when the Steubenville Nutcracker Village opens for its 10th season. Organizers with the Steubenville Cultural Trust have said a record 210 of the life-size figures will stand at attention throughout the downtown area. The evening will include a concert by the Ron Retzer Trio and the lighting of 25 decorated Christmas trees.

Parades are a staple of the Christmas season, and this year’s lineup opens with the 2024 Main Street Bank Fantasy in Lights Parade from 6-8 p.m. this Friday, Nov. 22, in Downtown Wheeling. In Martins Ferry, the annual Christmas parade is at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 29. The Christmas in the Ville Lighted Christmas Parade steps off at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 7 in Barnesville, while the St. Clairsville Christmas Parade starts at 3 p.m. Dec. 8, among others.

So, get out there and make merry.