Village Christmas returns Friday

Village Christmas returns Friday

WATKINS GLEN--The 28th annual Village Christmas is returning this year Friday, Dec. 10 after taking last year off due to COVID-19. This year's Village Christmas will have all the favorites including a holiday parade and fireworks.
"We are very pleased to have the Village Christmas back," said Mayor Luke Leszyk. "Much like the many events that we were able to have this summer, this is no exception that we are excited to have it back. I know our residents and visitors alike are looking forward to it."
Hosted by Watkins Glen Promotions, festivities will start at 5 p.m. this year with vendors selling crafts and food on a closed down Franklin Street before the Christmas parade begins at 6:30 p.m. The evening will then conclude with a fireworks display at 7:30 p.m. off the pier.
"The committee is really excited to have the festival back this year, with everything last year it felt like the holidays and giving back were lost due to the pandemic," said Michaela Christensen, director Watkins Glen Promotions. "So to have everything come back and have everyone be energized in the community and that makes us really happy."
The only noticeable change this year with the pandemic still affecting the area is Santa and Mrs. Claus will only be available during the parade and not directly for individual photos.
"There will be more vendors than ever, a balloon artist and a petting zoo, lots of fun stuff," said Christensen.
That sense of fun is important, not only to the vendors and businesses but to the residents themselves.
"I think this event is important to the village because it is purely about giving back to the community...It shows the kids there are fun things to do in their own village," Christensen added.
Economically, Village Christmas is also important, as it gives visitors another reason to return to the region.
The village and county have recently been working to expand the tourism season with events year-round.
"In the meantime, we are just praying for good weather, but I am very excited," said Christensen.