By Jordan Wilcox
Assistant Publisher
Last Friday, December 6th, was the first of Downtown Allegan’s Festive Fridays, and the Christmas Spirit was in full swing.
Local businesses were decorated with lights, garlands, ornaments, and trees. Free hot chocolate was available, courtesy of Biggby Coffee and Tilt. A Holly Jolly Trolley gave free rides around town. And the Chamber once again offered free gift wrapping at the City Hall.
The event unofficially kicked off at 4 pm with a free showing of Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town at the Regent.
Later on, Santa Claus really did come to town, and after visiting with many local children, he was paraded around Allegan.
The parade began at 7 pm and took a circular path down Locust, Hubbard, Chestnut, and Trowbridge Streets.
Allegan City Police led the parade and were followed by a variety of floats, vehicles, walking groups, and school bands.
Santa was on the very last float in the parade, passing out gifts (travel mugs) and covering the streets in snow (foam soap).
The parade ended at Trowbridge Plaza, where a large crowd was gathered around a giant Christmas Tree, waiting for it to be lit.
After a brief performance by the AHS band, and a small speech by Santa, City Manager Joel Dye, hopped on stage and pulled a lever, causing the tree to light up in beautiful harmony.
The night ended with many downtown businesses extending their shopping hours until 8 pm.
Santa plans to return to town this upcoming Friday, and next Friday too, for the other Festive Fridays.
This upcoming Festive Friday will feature an Art Hop with many talented vendors, Santa and his live reindeer at the library, and a Holiday Sing-along at the Griswold Auditorium.
