I-X Christmas Connection

As I've grown older, I've come to appreciate Thanksgiving. The holiday is much more than just food -- it's about gathering with your friends and family and showing your gratitude for all of the blessings in your life.

Unfortunately, Thanksgiving is often overshadowed by Christmas and the holiday shopping season, particularly Black Friday. Black Friday has grown so out of control that many stores and retailers are now opening their doors on actual Thanksgiving.

If you're in the festive mood, but want to avoid the craze of Black Friday (and still enjoy Thanksgiving with your family) take a trip to the I-X Center this weekend for the I-X Christmas Connection.

The Christmas Connection is a one-stop Christmas shopping event. Now in its 28th year, the show features more than 600 booths, including 140 new vendors added this year. The vendors offer something for everyone on your holiday shopping list, from jewelry to art to furniture. Live holiday entertainment will take place throughout the weekend, including performances by choir and Gospel groups, Irish dance bands and The Singing Angels.

Kids can also get in on the action with a special area of the show dedicated to SantaLand. Once in SantaLand, children can write letters to the North Pole, take pictures with Santa or buy gifts for mom and dad in the Sugar Plum Shoppe.

General admission tickets are $11 online and at the door. Discount tickets can be purchased at all local Drug Mart store locations for $9. Children age 12 and under are admitted for free.

Get a jump start on your holiday shopping and then enjoy Thanksgiving (or even Black Friday) with your family and friends!

I-X Christmas Connection hours:
Friday, Nov. 22 from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 23 from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 24 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

For more information, visit I-X Christmas Connection.