The first Vicksburg Art Association Christmas Party was held in 1971 and through the years the event has offered patrons an opportunity to have fun, visit and enjoy art.

This year’s party, set for Friday at the Old Constitution Courthouse, 1204 Main Street, is themed “Reflections” and will be held from 7 to 10 p.m.

Jean Blue, VAA vice president, said “Reflections” was chosen as the theme with the idea of looking back and also looking forward. The theme will also be reinforced by the art on display, which will feature hand-painted mirrors by local artists.

Decorations will also mimic the theme, she said, with blues and silvers used to “glitter like a mirror.”

“We encourage everyone to get out their glitz for the party,” she said.

Admission to the cocktail party is $30 for those who purchase tickets advance, or $35 for those who pay at the door. To purchase tickets in advance, call 601-415-0934 no later than Friday morning. The party will include heavy hors d’oeuvres and an open bar.

One of the highlights of the VAA Christmas Party is its annual silent auction.

In addition to the hand-painted mirrors, the auction will include pieces by artists and art pieces from donors’ collections, Blue said.

“The party highlights art by artists through our silent auction,” Blue said, adding, “And it is just a good cocktail party.”

Blue said the Christmas party is their major fundraiser for the Old Constitution Firehouse, which was designated as a Mississippi Landmark by the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. Built in 1870, the firehouse is believed to be the most intact Victorian fire station in the state and served as the second house for Vicksburg’s first volunteer Fire Company and later housed the first paid company. The building retains the central stall, barracks room, cupola, and bell, which was used to call the volunteers.

Currently, the Old Constitution Firehouse plays host to most of the VAA events, which include workshops, exhibitions, art-related programs and guest speakers.

The VAA is a non-profit organization that promotes and celebrates local arts and its artisans. For more information, visit vicksburgartassociation.org.