For Thanksgiving this year, I had the opportunity to attend the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. As my family and I sat in the reviewing stands along Central Park West, we enjoyed all of the festive Christmas floats, enormous cartoon character balloons and were even able to see the arrival of Santa Claus.

I happened to notice that while sitting among hundreds of strangers, in a sea of literally thousands of parade-goers, there was a spirit of friendship among everyone. We laughed and joked with folks sitting near us and enjoyed this venerable holiday tradition.

On a slightly smaller scale, through a variety of holiday events, Perry Hall offers that same home-grown positive spirit I experienced at the parade.

One of my personal favorites is coming up on Dec. 1. For a number of years, the Perry Hall Improvement Association has partnered with Perry Hall Elementary School to put on the annual Holiday Tree Lighting. Starting at 6:30 p.m., attendees can enjoy Christmas carols before gathering outside to witness the lighting of Perry Hall's community tree. As in previous years, younger guests will also have a chance to see Santa Claus.

On Dec. 3, The Avenue at White Marsh will host their annual holiday parade. Participants are expected to include high school marching bands, street performers, dance groups and even Santa Claus himself. This local version of the Macy's parade will kick off at 10 a.m.

There will also be a number of holiday parties, giving residents of Perry Hall a chance to come together and enjoy the holiday spirit. The Seven Oaks Senior Center will have their annual holiday party at noon on Dec. 8 at Columbus Gardens.

Just over a week later, on Dec. 17, the Friends of Perry Hall Mansion will hold their Fifth Annual Holiday Open House, 4-7:30 p.m. This unique event will combine food, fun and holiday music, all within the historic setting of the Perry Hall Mansion.

Last, but certainly not least, are the myriad of holiday train gardens. My personal favorite has always been the Christmas garden put together by the Wise Avenue Volunteer Fire Company, located in Dundalk. But closer to home, community members Jim Lanahan and Donald Thompson have built their own holiday train garden. Visitors must call 410-529-1457 to make an appointment and for directions to their home at 6 Bellington Court in Perry Hall.

Get yourself into the holiday spirit and find the right event for you and your family this season.