On Sunday, New Philadelphia held its 17th annual Christmas Festival, which is organized every year by the New Philadelphia Community Organization.

The day-long free community event consisted of ice carving, craft show, caroling, manger scene, cookies, and even sleigh "carriage" rides with Santa Claus and his wife Mrs. Jessica Mary Claus.Hundreds of riders waited in line to ride with Santa and Mrs Claus in a Leiby's carriage being pulled by two large Belgian Horses, standing in for Santa's reindeer.The carving was done by Mark Crouthamel, an ice carver and instructor from Ice Works in Lakeville, who brought in more than 700 pounds of specially-made clear ice, which was cut into seven sections and eventually used to create an ice sculpture of Santa Claus in the town's square park.Carolers from the Sounds of Heaven, St Paul's Lutheran Church in Port Carbon, and Holy Cross Church in New Philadelphia also entertained the audience.New Philadelphia Community Organization president and Mayor Francis "Frani" Tkach stated, "It is great to see so many people coming out to enjoy all the good things our caring community and dedicated volunteers provide."