Photo by Charmain Z. Brackett One of the largest light displays in the area is in Aiken.

More than 100,000 twinkling lights line the pathways and lighted displays of candy canes, toy trains, a nativity scene and skaters are part of the annual Christmas in Hopelands exhibit which will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. nightly through Dec. 27, except. Dec. 17, 24 and 25.

Hopelands Gardens is a 14-acre estate in the middle of Aiken. It was given to the city of Aiken by Mrs. C. Oliver Iselin. Also located on the grounds are the Dollhouse, The Carriage House Museum and the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame

The event is free. Because there is limited parking at Hopelands Gardens, patrons should park in the Goodwill Industries parking lot, and take a shuttle bus to the gardens.

Also in Aiken Saturday, there will be holiday minicamps at the Aiken Center for the Arts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with crafts and a movie for children while their parents shop. Numerous entertainers will be performing on the streets of downtown Aiken to provide a more festive spirit.

Groups, such as the Savannah River Grass, Suzuki Strings of Augusta, the Aiken Singers and Joyful Sounds, will be performing between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

It's the last weekend to enjoy some Southern fried comedy as the Futrelle sisters try to overcome their squabbles and have a Christmas to remember as the Aiken Community Playhouse presents Christmas Belles at 8 p.m. today and Saturday at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts.

Honey Rae Futrelle is trying to redeem herself by directing the Christmas program at the Tabernacle of the Lamb, but anything that could go wrong does including most of the cast getting food poisoning and a vengeful sheep.

Can anything save it? For tickets information, call (803) 648-1438.