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Last Friday the Roanoke Rapids Graded School District once again celebrated the holiday season with its second annual Christmas at the Castle. 

Building on the vision first imagined by Phil Hux, president of the Roanoke Rapids High School Alumni and Friends, this cherished event has already become a beloved tradition for our community.

Inspired by the beauty and history of Roanoke Rapids High School, Mr. Hux worked tirelessly with the Alumni and Friends board to ensure this year’s event would be just as magical as the inaugural one. 

Thanks to their hard work and support, Christmas at the Castle returned with even more sparkle, music, and holiday cheer.

A Spectacle of Lights and Music

After the sun had set on Hamilton Street, the Senior Building’s windows once again lit up with glowing candles, creating a breathtaking display. 

This year, new garlands and wreaths adorned the historic façade, further enhancing its festive charm. We were warmed from the cold temperatures by several fire pits donated by Clements Mechanical and Big John’s Store. 

Before the lighting, Mr. Hux welcomed the crowd, sharing heartfelt remarks about the spirit of the season and the pride in our school’s traditions and talented students.

The evening’s entertainment featured the Roanoke Rapids High School Chorus, led by Choral Director Denise Hackenburg, performing a selection of holiday favorites. Our performers not only sounded amazing, but they looked so dignified as they were adorned in period costumes from a bygone era.

The Jingle Bell Jackets of the Roanoke Rapids High School Band, under the direction of Laura Avery Manning, added their spirited renditions of classic carols and also looked so distinguished. I truly am so very proud of our students and their leaders and teachers, and I was honored to also share that with our visitors too.

Spectators enjoyed the chance to purchase this year’s commemorative mugs, hot chocolate, ornaments, Krispy Kreme donuts and coffee, sweets, and Christmas at the Castle t-shirts. Proceeds supported the band and chorus programs and showcased our community’s generosity.

Attendees admired our Alumni Christmas Tree, which was filled with ornaments throughout the evening. Roanoke Rapids High School alumni wrote their names and graduation years on glass ball ornaments to be added to the tree, continuing a tradition that celebrates the connection between past and present.

Santa Claus made another grand entrance through the high school’s front doors, delighting children and adults alike. 

Guests had their photos taken with Santa in the beautifully crafted wooden sleigh built by Nick Manning, creating treasured holiday memories.

A Team Effort

This year’s event would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of many. 

Mandy Clark and Laura Avery Manning, along with their team of staff and volunteers, ensured every candle, decoration, and detail was flawlessly executed. A special thank you goes to our sponsors, including the Halifax County Convention and Visitors Bureau, whose support made the evening even brighter.

Looking to the Future

As we reflect on another successful Christmas at the Castle, we are grateful for the opportunity to celebrate our school and community. This event has quickly become a holiday highlight, and we look forward to continuing this tradition and celebrating with friends and family for years to come.

 Roanoke Rapids Graded School District students and staff had a wonderful last week with many celebrations (more to come about those in next week’s The Yellow Jacket Report) and are enjoying our holiday break, which began on Saturday, December 21, and extends through Sunday, January 5. This well-deserved time off offers an opportunity for rest, relaxation, and cherished moments with loved ones. Classes will resume on Monday, January 6, 2025, as we welcome the new year with renewed energy and enthusiasm for learning.

From all of us at the Roanoke Rapids Graded School District, we wish you a joyful holiday season filled with warmth, laughter, and the spirit of togetherness. Together We Succeed!

Editor’s note: Cindy Boone contributed photos to this report