Holiday Spirit and Winter Sports Emerge

This week marks the start of two seasons.

The holiday season begins in earnest with the approach of events, services and celebrations that mark the holidays.

In addition, the winter sports season swings into action with all-important preparation and conditioning in gyms and pools, and on tracks and mats.

Swampscott Patch will preview these events and sports.

Events include the Association Holiday Parade on Dec. 11; the Swampscott Area Tree of Lights ceremony on Dec. 9, put on by the Hospice of the North Shore; and a benefit holiday concert being performed Dec. 5, by the Swampscott-based .

As far as sports go, winter athletic teams will be hard at work starting today.

Their dedication and heart starts taking shape at these practice sessions, which are often grueling and repetitive to build stamina and develop skills.

Patch will talk to coaches about their teams' preparation for competitions in the coming months.

Also, starting this week, look for stories about what people are doing for others in this time of need and generosity.

The local Patch also wants to report on Swampscott people's unique or slightly different holiday habits and traditions. 

Feel free to email yours to terry.date@patch.com