The Garrettsville Area Chamber of Commerce is set to host its 23rd annual Clocktower Lighting and visit with Santa this Small Business Saturday, November 30. A cherished tradition since 2001, the event brings holiday cheer to the community while spotlighting local businesses.
The tradition began in the wake of the September 11 attacks, when then-Chamber President Rick Patrick, now village Mayor, proposed the event to spread joy in the village during a very dark time in America. Working with the village council and Scotchman Electric, the Chamber has continued to decorate the clocktower and surrounding greenery, creating a festive atmosphere for the season.
This year’s festivities will kick off with Storytime and Cocoa with Mrs. Claus in the basement of Cellar Door Coffee Co. Families are invited to join Mrs. Claus for a cozy read-along to start the evening on a heartwarming note.
From 5:00-5:30 p.m., the Garfield High School choir will lead “Caroling at the Clocktower,” featuring beloved holiday tunes. “The inclusion of the GHS choir is an excellent way to spotlight the strong bond between the school district, the business community, and the families that make our community a great place to live,” said Ben Coll, vice president of the Chamber.
The highlight of the evening comes at 5:45 p.m., when Santa Claus arrives in town on a firetruck. After making a lap around the village, Santa will greet children at the clocktower, distributing small gifts courtesy of the Chamber and its member businesses.
“We hope that area residents and visitors take the time to explore some of the shops and restaurants we have here in town during Small Business Saturday,” said Coll. “As the sun sets, we invite them to stroll down Main Street to enjoy the decorations at the site of the future Buckeye Block Amphitheater and neighboring properties.”
This year’s enhanced decorations are thanks to local residents Jackie Rinearson and Sheri Collins, who raised funds over the summer with a Sip & Shop event to enable the Chamber to purchase holiday décor.
The Garrettsville Chamber invites everyone to discover the holiday spirit in the beautifully illuminated village this Saturday.
