By Jordan Wilcox
Assistant Publisher
Downtown Allegan welcomed the season of lights and cheer last Friday, December 5th, as it kicked off its annual Festive Fridays, a series of holiday-themed evenings designed to bring the community together through shopping, strolling, and seasonal celebration.
As daylight gave way to glowing storefronts and twinkling decorations, families and friends converged downtown for an evening of warmth and festivity. Local shops extended their hours until 8:00 p.m., inviting visitors to browse gifts, seasonal decor, and holiday treats.
At 4:00 p.m., the Regent Theatre opened its doors for a free holiday film screening, offering the first taste of festive entertainment to early arrivals.
As evening deepened, the atmosphere shifted from shopping and strolling to celebration. The Holly Jolly Trolley provided free rides around the downtown district, while a Biggby Coffee tent offered hot chocolate and warm beverages.
The highlight came at 7:00 p.m., when the city parade wound its way through Trowbridge, Locust, and Brady Streets. Marching bands, floats, walking groups, and holiday decor made their way along the route, culminating in a grand arrival of Santa Claus on the final float.
The parade ended at Mahan Park, where a crowd gathered for the shining moment: the lighting of a towering Christmas tree. A performance by the local high-school band preceded a brief ceremony, where Santa Claus and Assistant City Manager, Parker Johnson, bathed the area in festive light.
Afterwards, families lined up near the park’s pavilion for the opportunity to meet and greet Santa. Children waited eagerly to share their Christmas wishes while parents captured the moment with photos.
With cheerful crowds, extended shopping hours, free entertainment, and community spirit, the first Festive Friday of the season delivered an old-fashioned sense of holiday magic. Extras such as warm drinks, horse-drawn trolley rides, and downtown decorations reinforced that this is more than a shopping event — it is a tradition for Allegan residents to come together under the glow of the season.
As December continues, additional Festive Fridays will bring more events: an Art Hop showcasing local crafters, holiday music, visits with Santa (and live reindeer), and special offerings from downtown businesses.
