Although November seems extra-long this year, there won’t be a shortage of holiday cheer in Mantua in the days leading up to Christmas. On Saturday, November 30th from 4 – 6 pm, the annual Tree Lighting ceremony kicks off. This holiday tradition takes place on the Village Green (on Main St between Kira’s Sweet Bakes and R44 Meats, Deli & BBQ). Why not bring your camera and wear your Christmas sweater for a card-worthy photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus? Walk down to Crooked River Flowers to make a festive ornament and grab some freshly popped popcorn and hot cocoa back at the green at twilight. That’s where Santa and Mrs. Claus will flip the switch and light up the Village’s special Christmas tree, and the official start to the holiday season. While the event is free and open to the public, visit mantuasanta.eventbrite.com to let organizers know you’ll attend so they’ll be sure to have enough treats.
Be sure to make plans to visit Mantua on Thursday, December 5th for the 3rd annual Merry Evening. That night, shops will remain open from 4 to 8 pm, providing the opportunity to explore holiday gift options at the festively decorated shops in this walkable Village. Don’t forget to stop by one of the local restaurants, bakeries, coffee shop or wine bar to treat yourself to some holiday specials. Crestwood High School Choir will be caroling throughout the Village, adding to the holiday feel. Don’t forgot to step inside Restoration 44 Coffee, where the Crestwood Band will be holding their annual cookie walk fundraiser. You’ll be able to select your own handmade holiday treats. (No one will mind if you claim you made them yourself!)
In addition to the shops you love in the Village, over 20 vendors will be present at The Farmers and Makers Market in the basement of the Granary building at 4690 E Prospect Street. With such a selection of shops and vendors that night, you’re sure to find something for most everyone on your list. And once again, Crooked River Flowers will host the Mantua Rotary Club’s decorated Christmas tree auction and the Mantua-Shalersville Area Chamber of Commerce’s raffle baskets. Stop by to leave your bids — winners will be notified by December 11th. Bring the little ones in your life and make sure to try the Reindeer Search & Find Challenge. When you’ve spotted four of Santa’s reindeer hiding around town, stop by the Information Booth at the Village Green to earn a custom holiday sticker.
To take advantage of a special holiday memory, be sure and book your ticket for a seat in one of Whispery Pines’s festive horse-drawn carriage rides. Your special trip begins at the Granary; Tickets are $10 per person on the Holiday Wagon and $15 per person on the horse-drawn Christmas Carriage. Space is limited, so reserve your seats in advance at merryeveningmantua.eventbrite.com.
Please be aware that street parking is limited, but lots of free parking is available for both events. Park at Compass Packaging (Main & Orchard Street), Middlefield Bank (Main Street), Advanced Rehab (Mill Street) or at the Headwaters Trailhead behind McDonald’s (Main Street).
For more information, follow the Mantua-Shalersville Area Chamber of Commerce on Facebook or go to MSACOC.org.
