An open house Thursday at the Tamaqua Historical Society Museum, West Broad Street, kicked off the six-day Tamaqua Spirit of Christmas Festival. Festivities continue Friday at 6 p.m. with the Arrival of Santa Parade, lighting of Depot Square Park, and a meet and greet at the Tamaqua Community Arts Center. The event will span 6 days and include two weekends. DONALD R. SERFASS/SPECIAL TO THE TIMES NEWS