POINT PLEASANT — An annual event for many years now, preparations for the 2012 Mason County Family Christmas have begun.

Presented by the Family Resource Network (FRN), along with several other community agencies and individuals, this year’s event is set for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 8, at the Old Central Gym, located at 1200 Main Street. The event is free and open to the public.

According to FRN Director Greg Fowler, events this year will include pictures with Santa, Christmas crafts, face painting and refreshments. Outside community agencies will also be setting up tables where children can also make items to take home for their own Christmas trees, or as a gift for someone else.

“The Mason County Family Christmas is about the community pulling together to provide a good holiday experience for local children and their families.” Fowler said. “Over the past few years, we have created an atmosphere where parents can bring their children and enjoy the event.”

Fowler also stated that volunteers are needed for face painting, which is one of the more popular attractions at the event.

Reportedly, over 400 attended last year’s event and Fowler and the rest of the organizations involved hope to reach that number again.

“The event has grown each year, and we expect that to be the case again,” Fowler said.

For more information or to schedule a table at the event, call Fowler at 304-593-0072.