McLaurin Bankhead gets a ride at Sweet Seasons with her father Jonathan. The Rooftop at Midtown in Forest Acres was abuzz with activity as the City of Forest Acres presented their annual Sweet Seasons celebration on Thursday, December 4. Promoter Melissa Ligon said, "This is the holiday gift from the city of Forest Acres and the Forest Acres Restaurant and Merchant Association to its citizens and folks in the surrounding areas."

Mayor Frank Brunson echoed the sentiment, saying, "We're proud of our city and the people who live in it."

The turnout was heavy from the beginning and grew larger throughout the night. People chatted with neighbors, sampled food from local restaurants, and enjoyed local entertainment.

Participating restaurants included Past Fresca, Baskin Robbins, Groucho's, Publix Deli, Tombo Grill, Paulie's Pizzeria, Zoe's, Moe's, Shane's Rib Shack, and Starbucks. The crowd was entertained by the band Island Close By, The Carillon Carolers, two face painters, three balloon artists, the Columbia Marionette Theater, The Columbia Children's Theater, Caricaturist Billy Rabon, and WXRY Radio.

Rocky and Eve enjoy a night out with Beth Bullock. The youngsters in the crowd also enjoyed a climbing wall and an experience table provided by EdVenture.

Tables were provided by Sports Clips, Dr. Matzner, Great Clips, Belk's, Trash Formations, Grockett Photography, costumed members of the Columbia City Ballet, The City of Forest Acres, and Happy Tails.

The atmosphere was festive, the weather was perfect, and even Santa Claus put in an appearance.

Nancy and John Whitelock sample food from local Forest Acres restaurants at Sweet Seasons.