News Flash

COOKEVILLE – A whimsical wonderland is emerging at the Cookeville Depot Museum for its annual Christmas Open House.

The free event will be Dec. 1 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at 116 W. Broad St.

“The depot is the perfect place to kick off the holiday season,” Beth Thompson, Cookeville museums manager, said. “Area families make it a tradition to stop by every year, as there are several decorated trees and a fun color scheme throughout the building. We can’t wait to see everyone.”

Thompson described this year’s theme as “funky and whimsical.”

Highlights include holiday music provided by Cookeville’s Matt Beal, festive model train layouts, homemade cookies and treats from Friends of the Depot, Christmas carol karaoke, Santa selfie station, games, activities, live reindeer and visits with Santa.

“Children love seeing the model trains and taking part in the activities,” Thompson said. “They’ll have an opportunity to write their letters to Santa, too.”

The jolly old elf will be there from 10 a.m.-noon and 1-3 p.m. Remember to bring a camera.

“We’ll also have a group coloring project this year and some new games the kids won’t want to miss,” Thompson said.

The Cookeville Depot Museum is maintained by the City of Cookeville Department of Leisure Services. It was built in 1909 by the Tennessee Central Railway and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, call 931-528-8570.