The First United Methodist Church is rich in local history dating back to the Jackson Settlement Purchase. It was established on its present location in 1925. The First UMC offers both contemporary and  traditional services and a special children’s service as well. Outreach programs include televised worship services on Channel Cable 3 and radio broadcasts on WMUF AM/M.

For more information on the morning coffee program, call the  Chamber of Commerce. For more information on UMC programs and services, call 642-4764.

The lyrics to this familiar Christmas song hit it right on Rudolph’s shiny red nose as Paris begins a month long pre-holiday celebration guaranteed to entertain and enchant its residents and guests.

The fun begins on December 2 with the formal lighting of the Trees on the Square. Last year’s display with its lighted Eiffel Tower encircled with dozens of brilliantly lighted and holiday dressed Christmas trees. This year’s showcase of trees, which surrounds an illuminated replica of the Eiffel Tower, will be illuminated for public viewing from noon to 7 p.m. on weekdays and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. The location for this event is the corner of E. Washington and Brewer across from Leach’s Music. The tree display runs through December 21.

December 3rd takes a step back in time for a Candlelight Walk through Victorian downtown Paris. Holiday music. The glow of candlelight. The company of friends. It all begins after dark.

If music if what enchants you, a Mini Concert Series will be held on December 6, 13, and 20 at Leach’s Music on E. Washington Street. Concerts run from 3-5 p.m.

The annual Community Christmas Concert, sponsored by the Paris Henry County Arts Council, takes place December 7 at 7 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church. After the concert, take a walk along Poplar Street, lit by luminaries from the North Poplar Neighborhood Association.

If your youngsters want to Visit with Santa, he’ll be visiting Paris and “receiving callers” at Santa’s House on the town square every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday from 2-4 p.m. until Christmas. Refreshments, antique toys and more.

The annual Jaycees Holly Jolly Christmas Parade steps out on December 12 at 6:30 p.m.

Santa’s Last Blast takes place December 19; youngsters can visit with Santa, browse a selection of craft booths, listen to Christmas stories and more. It is one last celebration; then Santa’s heads north for a nap before his journey to vist children around the world.

The season wraps up with Christmas Eve services on December 24 at First United Methodist Church, First Christian Church and Grace Episcopal Church. call the churches for times.