By Gari Voss
December 2024 presents three Fridays for Downtown Allegan to turn into mini celebrations. On those three Fridays, stores remain open until 8pm. Along with the extended store hours, there are additional events. Each year, residents and visitors have opportunities to support local businesses while completing the all-important holiday shopping.
Every Friday, stores will be open until 8pm. Santa will be someplace in Downtown, the Regent Theatre will sponsor a free movie at 4pm, and free rides will be given on the Holly Jolly Trolley.
Friday, December 6th: The Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting will take center stage. Do some eating and shopping before the parade begins at 7pm. Find Santa at Trowbridge Plaza and reveal your secrets.
Friday, December 13th: Art Hop & more. There will be art in local shops and businesses. In addition, Santa and his reindeer will be at the Allegan District Library. Between 6 & 7pm, the Community Players will hold a Holiday Sing-Along at the Griswold Auditorium.
Friday, December 20th: Home for the Holidays features great food from local eateries plus favorite food trucks. The Social District is in full swing so beverages can be purchased to go.
A quick look at Festive Fridays:
The 1st Festive Friday, Santa highlights an absolutely marvelous Christmas Parade that begins at 7pm. In 2024, he will be available in Trowbridge Square to hear children’s wishes.
The 2nd Festive Friday features Art Hop. In 2024, there will be no less than 20 artists and crafters featured around Downtown. To add to the holiday atmosphere, the District Library will have live reindeer and next door from 6-7pm, there will be a Sing-Along at the Griswold Auditorium.
The 3rd Festive Friday highlights Home for the Holidays which could be termed “Eat Til You Drop”. Along with wonderful shopping in the Downtown shops, restaurants and Food Trucks lining the streets offer a variety of meals, Santa moves to City Hall, and the fun continues thanks to the Social District.
