Dubuque’s Invited to ‘Light Up the Library’ at Carnegie-Stout, December 5th!

It's the festive season in Dubuque and everyone is partaking in their favorite holiday traditions. Some visit Chaplain Schmitt Island and remember those who can't be with us this year, others gather to drive through the lights at "Reflections in the Park." Still others enjoy the various holiday tree lightings; this year marks a bit of a change for that specific celebration at the Carnegie-Stout Public Library.

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Instead of just flipping a switch, the library is inviting the community to a full evening of holiday cheer at its “Light Up the Library” Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 5th, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM in the Second Floor Rotunda, part of Dubuque's First Friday's festivities. Families and friends can start the evening by creating their own paint-swirl ornaments at a drop-in community art station. These ornaments will become part of the library’s holiday tree, turning it into a vibrant, collaborative display. Light refreshments will be available, and classic holiday records will fill the room with nostalgic holiday tunes.

Credit: Carnegie-Stout Public Library[/caption]The highlight of the evening, the official tree lighting at 6:00 PM, will feature handmade, book-themed decorations by local artist Marianne Black. Once the tree is glowing, families can gather for a cozy story time with a special guest, making for a memorable start to the season.

The festive fun continues the next day with Santa’s Workshop on Saturday, December 6th, from 1:00 to 2:00 PM in the Auditorium. Kids and families can make holiday crafts like recycled cards, beaded snowflakes, sticker gingerbread houses, and festive magnets; perfect for creating thoughtful homemade gifts.

Other upcoming events in December include:

• Lollipops & Music for Our Preschoolers Concert – Sat, Dec 13, 10:00–10:30 a.m., Auditorium
• Reading with Rover – Sat, Dec 13, 10:30–11:15 a.m., Program Room
• LEGO Challenge – Sat, Dec 20, 10:00–11:00 a.m., Auditorium
• Family Book Bingo – Sat, Dec 20, 2:00–3:00 p.m., Auditorium
• Folded Book Vase (Registration Required) – Mon, Dec 22, 2:00–3:15 p.m., Program Room

From tree lighting to crafts and story times, Carnegie-Stout Public Library offers plenty of ways to celebrate the season with creativity and learning in Dubuque.