If we had to sit and list all of the places one could buy their Christmas presents locally, we would have to use the entire editorial page. The possibilities in Selma and Dallas County are endless for gifts if you just get creative.

But there is much more in town stored up for the holiday season than gift ideas at retailers. There are also events and holiday festivals that will give residents the chance to shop and have a great time.

Each year Vaughan Place Senior Living Community presents their Festival of Trees. There are more than 25 decorated trees that the senior residents put together and want to share their work with the community. The volunteers, staff and residents all sell their handmade gifts and ornaments at the festival as well.

This community event entertains the kids for the night with colorful lights and cheery Christmas spirit. Most importantly, visiting Vaughan Place Senior Living Community will show children that Christmas is about more than just Apple computer products and video games. It is about coming together as a community, young and old, and celebrating something much bigger than ourselves.

Sturdivant Hall will be decorated for the holidays in the same colorful fashion and no admission will be charged Saturday. Support our local tourism gem and travel over to celebrate.

The Holiday Festival will take place each day from Dec. 5 to Dec. 15 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This festival will feature the homemade baked goods of local church congregations, local clubs and several local cooking favorites.

The proceeds made from this festival will naturally benefit those groups that are selling the goods.

It is always best to shop local, local, local. When in doubt, shop local. But there are so many options such as these fun events that will provide fun for the family at a cheap cost and you will be helping others.

That is what the holidays are all about anyway.