Holidays bring Downtown activities

By Ashley Luthans

A multitude of activities in Downtown St. Joseph aim to spread cheer this holiday season.

Events kick off on Saturday, Nov. 30, with the annual Downtown Lighting Ceremony at Coleman Hawkins Park at Eighth and Felix streets. Live music, Mayor John Josendale, Santa Claus and more will be present at the event.

Free carriage rides, photo opportunities, a petting zoo and more activities will be offered on weekends throughout the holiday season. The Merry Market in Felix Street Square, a “Christmas Village” vendor fair, will also take place in the park every Saturday from Nov. 30 to Dec. 21.

Downtown Liaison Christy George explained that the holiday events are to bring the whole community downtown to benefit families, as well as local businesses.

”We hope that when people come down to enjoy all the free events that they then take advantage of shopping in the unique shops and dining in our amazing restaurants,” George said. “That’s why we do it so that we can bring people downtown, not only for their memories and moments but also to help support our local businesses.”

Longboards’ general manager Michael Mullen says he’s looking forward to the people the holiday activities will bring Downtown.

”I‘m looking forward to like the family-friendly atmosphere,” Mullen said. “That warm feeling that Christmas brings…pretty much, just the all-around good vibes of Downtown.”

To learn more about events happening Downtown this season, visit downtownstjoemo.com/events.