Community News

Board of County Commissioners Elects New Chair and Vice Chair

At its regular meeting on Dec. 4, the Union County Board of Commissioners elected a new chair and vice chair to lead the Board for the next year. J.R. Rowell is now serving as chair of the Board. Commissioner Brian W. Helms was elected vice chairman of the Board. Both Rowell and Helms are lifelong residents of Union County. Click here to read more.

Holiday Waste Reduction Tips

No one has time to waste around the holidays, much less time to think about waste. But did you know that most American households generate more trash between Thanksgiving and Christmas than any other time of the year? Union County Solid Waste is sharing tips to help you reduce clutter while saving time and money this holiday season: Set reasonable limits on what and how much you will buy this year.  Think outside the gift box. Give the gift of experiences - like concert or sporting event tickets - or donate to a local nonprofit on a loved one's behalf.  If you're gifting a new electronic device this year, it may be time to recycle an old device. Union County's Waste and Recycling Centers accept televisions, desktop and laptop computers, monitors, tablets, mobile phones, CD or DVD players, cameras, video game equipment, and small appliances like toasters and space heaters for recycling.  Visit our website or call 704.296.4260 to learn more. Read more waste reduction tips for the holiday season.

Community Events

Santa Claus is Coming to Town!

Dec. 7-23
120 North Main St., former Union County Community Arts Council 

Meet Santa, his elves, and explore the workshop. A perfect opportunity for a personal encounter with Santa to share your good deeds of the year!  See event details.

Cocoa & Carols with Santa

Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Dogwood Park

Enjoy a festive morning with holiday train rides, music performances, face painting, and more. Join the Village of Wesley Chapel for a delightful mix of cocoa and carols, and bring your friends and family to spread holiday cheer! See event details.

Christmas with Cops 

Saturday, Dec. 9, 2-4 p.m.
Marshville Community Center

Join the Marshville Police Department for sweet treats, pictures with Santa, and free toys for local kids. See event details.

Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony

Saturday, Dec. 9, 5-7 p.m.
Marvin Efird Park

Kick off the holiday season with the Village of Marvin's Tree Lighting Ceremony. Enjoy live music, free cookies, refreshments, and a visit from Santa Claus. Bring new, unwrapped gifts for the Toys for Tots collection. See event details.

Waxhaw's Christmas Parade

Sunday, Dec. 10, 3 p.m.
Downtown Waxhaw

Join us for the "Merry & Bright" themed parade featuring local school bands, businesses and community floats. A festive celebration for all ages! See event details.

Menorah Lighting Ceremony

Tuesday, Dec. 12, 5:30 p.m.
Downtown Waxhaw, near Railroad Overhead Bridge

In partnership with the Ballantyne Jewish Center, the Town of Waxhaw invites you to a special Menorah Lighting Ceremony. Enjoy children's activities starting at 5 p.m., followed by the lighting. See event details.

Healthy Living

Prevent the Spread of Seasonal Respiratory Illness

To keep yourself and your family safe throughout the holiday season, here are some steps to prevent the spread of influenza (flu), COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV):

• You can get a flu vaccine at the same time as a COVID-19 vaccine.

• Regularly wash your hands.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue and then discard the tissue promptly.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and if you are sick, limit your contact with others. 

Celebrate the Holidays with Safety in Mind

Here are some tips to ensure a safe holiday experience for everyone:

• Donate last season's jackets and coats to those in need through local organizations, or donate new clothes and toys to the Christmas Bureau. Find resources for assistance or where to donate at UC CARES.
• Combat holiday stress by taking leisurely walks in one of our beautiful parks, like Cane Creek Park, with free admission through February 2024.
• Be cautious with fireplaces, space heaters, stovetops, and candles. Consider using battery-operated flameless candles for safety. Keep real Christmas trees well-watered to prevent fire hazards.
• The roads are busier during the holidays. Always wear your seatbelt and avoid distractions while driving. Do not drive while impaired.
• If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, remember the new national 988 number for support.

For additional tips, read more online.