As is the tradition of this highly anticipated kick-off to the holiday season in New Canaan, Friday evening will feature the arrival of Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, who will light the trees lining New Canaan’s shopping district. Residents of all ages and backgrounds gather on New Canaan's Elm Street, which is closed to traffic, to enjoy the festivities: singing Christmas carols and enjoying musical performances by the Saxe Saxaphones, Students of the Studio, Performing Arts Conservatory, The New Canaan Dance Academy and the Magical Music Singers.
Not to be missed is the performance of “2 Little Snowflakes” which will include a cast of many talented children from New Canaan and the surrounding towns. The performance was originally written as a Christmas poem inspired by the importance of treasuring friendship after the events on 9/11.The entertainment continues as a cast of holiday characters such as Frosty the Snowman, the Grinch and of course Rudolph roam the village spreading holiday cheer. Everyone warms up with delicious seasonal beverages provided by local merchants, as guests shop. Surprises can be found on Main and Forest Streets as well.
The merriment continues on Saturday: enjoy photo ops with Santa at Ralph Lauren Kids, a magician will be on hand to dazzle the crowds thanks to Bankwell in New Canaan and the Norwalk Symphony Brass Ensemble will bring live music to the streets. Even an ice sculptor will be on hand at three different locations while onlookers watch as characters are created from a single block of ice.
Finally enjoy the Ginger Bread House Tour sponsored by Halstead Properties. “You don’t have to be Hansel or Gretel to appreciate the creativity and enthusiasm that our young people exhibit each year when building and decorating their own gingerbread houses,” said Tucker Murphy, executive director of the Chamber. “This is a wonderful tradition that our ancestors brought with them to the New World. Keeping it alive is one of the more enjoyable rites of the holiday season.”
The houses will be on display in store windows throughout town during the month of December.
The Holiday Stroll continues to be one of the reasons why living in New Canaan is A Wonderful Life.
Admission to the Holiday Stroll is FREE
www.newcanaanchamber.com 203-966-2004