Northdale Offering Holiday Music, Caroling

If you're a senior living in Northdale, Bill Castens is making sure you have something holiday-related to do come December.

First off, there's a Holiday Music Extravaganza on Dec. 6 at 11 a.m., featuring the  music of Edith and Harvey Lyons. It's also potluck, so bring something to share, said Castens, who founded the nonprofit seniors group Northdale O.W.L.S.

About 300 of the 800 active members of the Northdale Civic Association came to the event last year, he said.

"It was fantastic (last year), because they do a great holiday presentation," he said. "They get standing ovations from the crowd."

There will also be a raffle, Castens said.

On Dec. 15, there will be Caroling in the Park from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. at 15550 Spring Park Drive. Refreshments will be provided by the Girl Scouts, Castens said.

"It's a free event, and they will have the Girl Scouts do a program, and the Northdale O.W.L.S. will sing," Castens said. "We'll have a big screen with the words on it, and music on paper."

Castens said the events held in Northdale during the holidays are always well attended.

"A lot of seniors have a lot of companionship from their family during the holidays, but they still like to do things on their own," he said. "We give them fun things to do in a safe environment."

Ann Frisbie, president of the Northdale Civic Association, agreed.

"It's wonderful to have the camaraderie of friends and others, and it's an excuse to get out for an evening of fun with the community."

For a calendar of December events in Northdale, go to the Northdale Civic Association's website.