“That’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.” So says Linus, the blanket-carrying character after relaying the biblical account of the birth of Christ in ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’. The plot revolves around a young boy, Charlie Brown, who, repelled by the commercialism he sees around him, tries to find the true meaning of Christmas. This show was first shown on TV in 1965. It is replayed on TV annually as a holiday favorite. More than a decade earlier in 1951, a group of people in the Fort Wayne area were also concerned that Christmas was becoming too commercialized. Their solution was to create a Christ Child Festival, an event that would focus on the events leading up to the birth of Jesus Christ. This festival has been held every year since 1951, making it one of Fort Wayne's oldest festivals. The message of the festival is revealed through the dozens of displays, games, crafts, and musical performances offered during the weekend of December 14-16. There is even a live nativity with animals. It doesn't matter what church you attend or if you don't attend a church. This festival is a non-denominational religious event for the entire community. Another appealing aspect is that the event is free and refreshments are provided at no charge. Keep in mind parking at the Coliseum will cost you $4.00 per vehicle. Attendees are also encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for the Associated Churches Food Bank or a baby item to be donated to local crisis pregnancy centers. My must-do of the event will be stopping by the Veterans Tree to write a note of encouragement and thanks to our active service members from the community. Could this become a traditional event for your family? Date(s): Friday, December 14, 6-9pm Saturday, December 15 Noon-8pm Sunday December 16, Noon-6pm Allen County War Memorial Coliseum 4000 Parnell Ave Fort Wayne 260.482.9502 Parking: $4.00 Main Lot / $8.00 Preferred Lot