Country Christmas dreams up holiday fun Monday
“Christmas Dreams” is the theme of the 2020 Country Christmas sponsored by Holyoke Chamber of Commerce. The annual event will usher in the holiday season Monday, Dec. 7.
One of the highlights of the evening will be the 22nd annual Parade of Lights, which starts at 6:30 p.m. on Interocean Avenue. Fun holiday decals will be located on downtown sidewalks to help families practice safe social distancing during the parade.
CHS Grainland and Highline Electric Association are sponsoring cash prizes for parade entries — $100 for first, $75 for second and $50 for third. Parade entry forms can be picked up at either business and should be returned to HEA by Friday, Dec. 4.
Entries will line up between 5:30-6 p.m. near Golden Plains Motel, and judging begins at 6 p.m. Participants are asked not to throw candy this year.
The old gas depot south of Phillips County Museum in the 100 block of South Campbell Avenue will be festively decorated for holiday photos from noon-8 p.m. The photographers will be uploading photos online and giving families access to print their own copies.
Santa and Mrs. Claus won’t be available for photos; however, they will be making appearances in the parade and at the Lions Club Mini Park.
The chamber is encouraging people to wear festive masks to Country Christmas this year. Those who are wearing festive masks can collect tickets from all the businesses that they visit during the event. The tickets can be turned in for a hot cider at the mini park, and the chamber will draw one ticket and award the individual $50 in Chamber Bucks that can be used for holiday shopping in Holyoke.
The chamber is also sponsoring a contest for businesses to decorate a storefront window or downtown light pole. Participants should sign up with the chamber at 970-854-3517 or director@holyokechamber.org by Friday, Dec. 4.
While there won’t be a traditional Country Christmas soup supper this year, local restaurants will have food available in addition to the holiday gifts people can browse at local merchants. Vendor tables will also be set up at Inklings Bookstore during Monday’s event.
The Peerless Theatre is showing “Home Alone” at 4 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. with a special price for food and admission. Seating is limited.