The Tamaqua Community Art Center is thrilled to be included in Schuylkill County's Spirit of the Holidays, which celebrates the county's artists. It's the third year for the three-day event, and the first time the TCAC is included.

"It's a way to shop locally, supporting our small businesses and our artists," TCAC director Leona Riegel said. "People who visit all the venues will see the work of more than 200 artists."Artists' creations include holiday home decor, fine art prints and originals, candles, pottery, knitted goods, artisan foods and candies, clothing, jewelry, baby gifts, ornaments, glassware, letterpress, wood turning items, soaps and lotions, pet gifts and fresh wreaths. The event kicks off with a party with live music from 6 to 10 p.m. Wednesday at the Oak Hill Inn, Route 61, Orwigsburg.Then, from Friday through Sunday, shoppers can visit six locations, getting a card punched at each venue for a chance to win more than $500 in prizes. Special events such as visits with Santa are scheduled at each location. For a full list, visit

www.CelebrateSchuylkill.com. Fliers are available at the TCAC.The venues are:Tamaqua Community Art Center, 125 Pine St., Tamaqua: Santa meet and greet, Theatre show, candlelight shopping experience, hands-on art demonstrations.Walk-in Art Center, 110 W. Columbia St., Schuylkill Haven: Holiday market and open house, visit artists in their studios, shop from more than 40 local vendors in a former shoe factory.Mud & Maker, 6 S. Centre St., Pottsville: Meet the artists while shopping for holiday gifts in a pottery studio.The Arts Barn, 3 Berry Road, Schuylkill Haven: Shop in a remodeled barn while enjoying complimentary wine and cider. Items are from Pennsylvania artists.Christkindlemarket at Schuylkill County Community Art center, 1440 Mahantongo St., Pottsville (the Yuengling mansion): Experience the old-world Christmas as you enjoy a German Christmas market in the elaborately decorated historic mansion.Musical Venues: The Schuylkill Choral Society performs at Schuylkill Haven High School; the Star of Bethlehem is performed at Trinity Episcopal Church, 200 S. Second St., Pottsville. Dates and times are available on the website.