Soroptimist International of Oak Harbor regretfully announced that for the first time in 23 years, there won’t be a Christmas Village.

One of the difficulties was finding a venue to hold the event, which has been held in a number of locations over the years.

Polly Dyer, chair of the Christmas Village committee, said the Soroptimists are thankful for the community support the event has received.

“We thank you for visiting our village each year and making it a truly special event. We also thank the landowners who allowed Christmas Village on their properties and the countless number of volunteers, 4-H clubs and individuals who generously supplied their time, barns and animals. Without their generosity we could not have hosted Christmas Village,” Dyer said in a press release.

Christmas Village, a huge undertaking, was Soroptimist’s annual gift to the community. There was no admission charge to tour a lighted wonderland complete with Mr. and Mrs. Santa, gingerbread house, model train, children’s petting farm, entertainment, refreshments and more.

Dyer said Soroptimists wish everyone happy holidays and urge support for festivities hosted by local community groups and Oak Harbor merchants.