Many of us have fond memories of those herky-jerky animated 1960s specials, a favorite among them, “Rudolph, The Red-Nosed Reindeer.” Songs from the period include “Holly Jolly Christmas,” recorded by Burl Ives, a Newton favorite son. Ives voiced Sam the Snowman in “Rudolph.” His character, plus the Abominable Snowman, Hermey the Elf and others have been fashioned into costumes by a gifted Jasper County seamstress. They, well, parade around. One season Burl’s widow, Dorothy, had the couple’s lawn ornaments—wooden statuettes of the cartoon’s characters—shipped to Newton. An artisan carved copies before they were sent back, and they’ve appeared in town during the holidays ever since. While you're in Newton, visit the third-generation Arndt’s Fudgery! This excellent local business adds their 70-some flavors with peppermint and caramel apple, along with Amish jams to the celebration. Make this event part of your holiday tradition! Join larger-than-life characters from holiday movies and enjoy puppet shows, carriage and wagon rides, Christmas carolers, visits with Santa and more. December 6, 13 and 20 For more information call 618.783.3399 -- This article (written by Bill Beggs, Jr.) is taken from the cover story of the 2013 Tourism Times Holiday Guide. Click Here to receive this award winning publication Free of Charge three times annually and stay up to date on everything going on in Downstate Illinois!