Farmington Gears Up for 200th Anniversary Holly Days Celebration on December 7

Farmington Prepares for a Spectacular Holly Days Celebration

As the holidays draw near, the city of Farmington is buzzing with excitement for its annual Holly Days event, set to light up downtown on December 7. This year’s festivities are particularly special, as they coincide with the city’s 200th anniversary. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, this celebration promises to be a memorable experience for everyone.

A Day Full of Festivities

The Holly Days tradition has a rich history in Farmington, taking place on the first Saturday of December for many years. This year’s event, organized by the dedicated Annette Compo, is packed with activities designed to bring the community together and spread holiday cheer.

Kick off your day at the Greens, Gifts, and Giving Market, which will be bustling from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Riley Park, located at 33113 Grand River Ave. If you’re bringing kids along, don’t miss the popular Holiday Train Ride, also running during those hours at the same venue. It’s sure to be a hit with the little ones!

As the clock strikes noon, the excitement continues with a Visit with Santa Claus at Essential Family Chiropractic, where kids can sit on Santa’s lap until 1:30 p.m.. Meanwhile, for crafty kids and budding storytellers, Stories and Crafts with Mrs. Claus will be hosted at the same location from 1 to 4 p.m.. What could be more delightful than sharing stories and making crafts with everyone’s favorite holiday characters?

Another highlight is the opportunity for family photos with Santa, sponsored by Ayar Law. Catch Santa at the Farmington Garage from 2 to 4:30 p.m.. These photos will surely become cherished memories for years to come!

The Parade and Tree Lighting

The excitement reaches its peak with the Light Up The Grand Parade, starting at 5:30 p.m. on Grand River Avenue. This is where the true magic of the season comes to life as families gather to watch the festive floats pass by. Following the parade, everyone is invited to the traditional tree lighting at the Warner Mansion, expected to start around 6:30 p.m.. This year, the tree lighting is sponsored by T-Mobile Fiber.

A Community Effort

With over 50 volunteers pitching in, the organization of Holly Days is no small feat. While the Greater Farmington Area Chamber of Commerce has been involved in the past, Compo took the lead this year, demonstrating incredible community spirit and collaboration. The event has garnered support from local businesses, with Z Painting among the key partners committed to the success of this beloved tradition.

Despite the hard work and planning, Compo emphasizes that there’s no cost for community members to attend, making the event accessible for all. “It’s a very time-consuming event, but it’s really loved by our community,” she shared.

Looking Towards the Future

As the event approaches, the excitement is palpable. Holly Days not only brings families together but also provides a boost for local retailers as residents and visitors shop and enjoy festive activities. “This is that first big push after Thanksgiving weekend for sales,” Compo noted, expressing the event’s significant impact on the local economy.

Incorporating the city’s bicentennial theme into this year’s festivities has been a priority for Compo, with special marketing materials showcasing the city’s proud history. As the Farmington community unites for Holly Days, it’s clear that this event is more than just a celebration; it’s a testament to the spirit of togetherness and the importance of community.

So mark your calendars, gather the family, and come celebrate in Farmington this December! For more details about Holly Days, head to downtownfarmington.org/hollydays. Let’s make some wonderful memories together!