Christmas Stroll
Christmas Stroll
Community invited to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas Dec. 11th
ELLICOTTVILLE - Slow down the pace during the holiday rush and take some time to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas during Ellicottville’s annual Christmas Stroll. This year’s Stroll, originally scheduled for Dec. 4th, has been moved to Saturday, Dec. 11th to allow for additional planning. The Christmas Stroll welcomes all to a day of friendship as locals and visitors come together to remember the season and the story behind this special time of year.
“Ellicottville is a great place to come out and experience a relaxed pace and to take the time to enjoy a nice representation of the reason we celebrate during the holiday season,” said Gwen Bush, organizer of the event. “Come out and remind yourself what Christmas is all about.”
Holy Name of Mary Roman Catholic Church, located on the corner of Jefferson and Martha Streets, will have their display of Nativity and Angels for all to see. The sidewalks of downtown will be filled with the sounds of the season as festive music permeates the air, coupled with the soft voices of sauntering carolers. Keep an eye out for the Christmas elves who will also be out and about, spreading holiday cheer and handing out candy canes.
Local businesses have been busy decorating their storefronts, showcasing beautiful holiday themes for your enjoyment as you window shop throughout the afternoon. Once those noses are good and chilled, bring the little ones in from the cold for a hot chocolate break at The Tee Bar, which will be offering tasty holiday cookies. Just down the street and around the corner at Villaggio, Santa is expected to make his grand appearance at 4:00pm.
“What would the Christmas Stroll be without a special visit from Jolly Old St. Nick and his cheery elves?” said Jessica Wallace, Business Development Manager of the Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce. “We invite everyone to come out and enjoy an afternoon in our own little snow globe, to be together and celebrate friendship and fun! Plus, where else are you going to find a Reindog Parade?”
At 4:30pm, a spectacle like no other will take over the village, as many of our K9 friends, dressed in their holiday best, will march alongside their owners down the main drag to the gazebo.
“It’s one of the most anticipated events during the holiday season here in Ellicottville,” said Wallace. “Just picture it: dogs of all shapes and sizes, donning Christmas sweaters, antler headbands, sparkly bling and festive bells, parading down Washington Street, with crowds lining both sides of the street cheering them on … it’s magical entertainment at its best! It’s always a crowd pleaser!” Those interested in participating in the Reindog Parade should meet at the post office parking lot at 4:30pm. There is no charge to participate.
The evening will come to a conclusion at the gazebo at 6:00pm with a Living Nativity featuring the local children of Ellicottville. Dressed the part to play the roles of angels and shepherds, these children will tell the story of that very first Christmas - the journey and the birth of Jesus.
“This pageant has become an iconic staple of the holiday season here in Ellicottville and is a great representation of the true meaning of Christmas,” said Bush. “Come share in the story. Come celebrate the season and our community.”
For more information on this year’s Christmas Stroll including a full schedule of the day, head over to ellicottvilleny.com or call 800-349-9099.