‘Twas two weeks before Christmas, and all throughout Annapolis, there were sounds of Christmas shoppers bustling about and music playing in the street. But in West Annapolis, Santa arrived early and even offered rides on his sleigh (sort of). This past Saturday, December 15, West Annapolis held their Christmas celebration, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” where the whole village turned festive. Most events were outside, and in turn, dog-friendly. Too bad it’s over, but the feeling of the holidays is still in West Annapolis, and there is inspiration below to make your own holiday a bit brighter.

Though Christmas celebrations are tough to reduce down to one day, West Annapolis’ “It’s a Wonderful Life” lasted all day with plenty of overlapping events for optimal festivity. At the West Annapolis Cinema, the namesake of the celebration and integral part of many Christmas celebrations around the world–the movie It’s a Wonderful Life–showed from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Even truer to the Christmas spirit than the magic of the black and white film was the free aspect of the film. Residents and visiting friends and families could enjoy a respite from the cold and kickstart the season for no charge.

What would Christmas (or any holiday for that matter) be without sugary treats? Salon West hosted a bake sale full of decorated cookies, chocolate desserts, and more during their business hours on Saturday.

Santa strolled around West Annapolis, stopping at the young singers of The Annapolis School of Performing Arts who entertained with Christmas carols from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and then at various spots and businesses. Santa could also be found at Tara’s Gift’s, supervising his workshop, from noon to 4 p.m. For those who couldn’t catch Santa (he’s quick despite that heavy velour suit), guests of the celebration could enjoy rides in pedicabs, which were ostensibly meant to simulate Santa’s sleigh. The rides were also free, from 1 to 5 p.m.

More excitement ensued with the face painting at none other than Giant Peach, from 3 to 6 p.m. Christmas-themed face painting was optional, but for those rebellious, creative kids, anything went.

To match the Christmas vibe, there was Christmas music played by Kemp Hammond Experience that could be heard throughout West Annapolis, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

With all the entertaining events passed, what you should do is take a Scrooge approach: reflect on the past to better the future. Perhaps the bake sale at Salon West will inspire you to bake and decorate cookies for a neighbor, friend, or teacher. For those of you who are truly fearless, go caroling with the kids and friends. Spreading cheer is a central piece of the season; be inspired by “It’s a Wonderful Life” and spread some today.

For upcoming events in West Annapolis, head to www.westannapolisbusiness.org.