As John Lennon's "So This Is Christmas" echoes, we reflect on the true meaning: a time of peace, love, and selfless giving fueled by the enduring Christmas Spirit. Amid family feasts, twinkling trees, and children's laughter, it's not about gifts—it's presence. Discover free joys: snow angels in glistening drifts, warm snickerdoodle baking sessions, and local lights tours in 573's Winter Wonderland. Spread cheer—get out there!

Discover how last minute shopping can support small-town businesses this holiday season. Last minute shopping locally makes a big impact!

Last week 573Magazine.com went to a baking party. It was a blast! The beautiful decor, the oven warmed house, the wide eyed wonderment and joyful sound of giggling children I adore, the smells of apple pie, cinnamon spice, and fresh baked cookies wafting through the air...it was exactly the thing to wake my inner child and spark the magic of the Christmas Spirit. In the spirit of giving and in hopes that we might spread a little Christmas cheer to all of you...our friends,

Some of the fondest Christmas memories are made in the kitchen, making holiday treats with the people we love. Baking days are like...

Ebenezer Scrooge, the main character in Charles Dickens 1843 novel A Christmas Carol, is a cold-hearted, selfish miser who hates Christmas. His name has come to represent greed and a mean spirit. Scrooge's catchphrase, "Bah, humbug!" is often used to express disgust with Christmas traditions. But was it really Christmas that Scrooge hated? ...it can be easy to forget good manners and the true spirit of the season... With the recent downturns in the economy it can be easy t