Why is Downtown in December held?
Downtown in December is a series of holiday events that are held to celebrate the magic of the holidays, promote community togetherness, and allow residents and the community to create lasting memories in the city they call home.
What is different with this year’s event?
This year’s event is in a reimagined format. The Light Up the Lawn event on Saturday, December 2 has been scaled-back in its offerings. A Holiday Market vendor fair has been added on Saturday, December 9, and our traditional Holiday Parade will take place on Wednesday, December 13. Large-scale light displays will adorn the City Hall Lawn throughout December for residents to visit and interact with for free at their convenience.
Why was the event reimagined this year?
After careful consideration, and listening to the voices of residents, city staff made changes to the event that aim to alleviate overcrowding. The new format allows guests to visit the City Hall interactive displays, at their convenience throughout December. When visiting downtown, we also encourage residents to support local retailers and restaurants.
What time will the tree lighting take place?
A brief tree lighting ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. on Saturday, December 2.
Will Santa be attending events?
As you can imagine, Santa’s schedule is booked solid throughout December! We are so fortunate that Mr. and Mrs. Claus have made time in their busy schedules to be a part of our Holiday Parade on Wednesday, December 13.
Will there be an ice-skating rink?
Ice skating will not be available this year. We encourage ice skating enthusiasts to visit our partners at the Panthers Ice Den for skating availability.
Will there be food trucks?
Food trucks will not be present at Downtown in December events. Snack vendors will be on site offering small bites for purchase. Free cookies will also be distributed on Saturday, December 2 and Saturday, December 9. We encourage guests to have dinner at one of the many downtown restaurants before or after attending the event.
Will there be train rides? Are they for residents only?
Trackless train rides will be available for a limited time on Saturday, December 2 from 5 to 7 p.m. There will be two lines to access the train: A “fast pass” line for residents who have pre-registered and a “standby” line for non-residents and residents who did not pre-register. Riders in the “standby” may experience a longer wait time and are not guaranteed a ride.
Will there be snow?
Yes! Periodic “snow” flurries will flutter over the City Hall Lawn on Saturday, December 2 and Saturday, December 9 from 5 to 7 p.m. The “snow” is a bubble/soap mixture.