A new concept for a traditional Clayton holiday event is taking shape in downtown Clayton. “A Live Christmas Village” will be presented from 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm on November 29 and is being organized by the Promotion Committee of the Clayton Downtown Development Association (DDA). Dance and choral performances by local students and the Tree Lighting ceremony will continue to be a main focus of the event. But, as Committee chair, Lyn Austin said, “The main focus is to bring the activities to the street and let people in Clayton know about the wonderful opportunities available in downtown Clayton.”
This event enhances Clayton’s traditional Christmas performance and tree lighting ceremony, by bringing the events to downtown’s commercial and retail core. The DDA is requesting that Main Street be closed from Smith to O’Neil Street from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm so a special environment of festivities and activity can be created there. “Although most of the festivities this year are concentrated between Lombard and O’Neil streets”, Ms Austin said, “in coming years the event will grow to include more of the downtown area.” She emphasized that the Downtown Storefront Decorating Contest does include ALL downtown businesses.
Performances by specific groups are still being arranged and a celebrity appearance will be announced soon.
The Merchant’s Open House – 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm – This is an opportunity for residents to experience what downtown has to offer from retail to service businesses. Many merchants will provide some sort of holiday refreshment, whether it is cider, soft drinks, cookies, and candies.
Downtown Storefront Decorating Contest - Winners of the decorating contest will be announced at the Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 29. Award Categories will be Most Creative, Most Traditional and Best Overall. A “People’s Choice” award will also be determined and announced at the same time. A “Grinch” award will also be bestowed on non-participating storefronts! All commercial businesses on Front Street, First Street, Main Street (east and west) and Second Street will be considered.
Dance & Choral Performances – Students from Clayton schools and studios will provide holiday performances, as always, but this time the performances will take place on Main Street.
Pet Costume Contest & Parade – Still in the planning stages, this contest and parade will take place at Doggie Do’z on E First Street! For more information, call Amy Hallinan at 553-5959.
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony – Activities on Main Street will end by 8:15 pm as everyone will be lead to the Christmas Tree at Town Square. Several performances are scheduled, then everyone will join together for a candlelight carol or two, and then the Christmas Tree will be lit!
For more information and schedule updates, visit or call Lyn Austin at 553-4439 or Debbie Hammond at Fancy That Gifts at 550-2946.
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