Fire pits, roasted chestnuts, hayrides, oxen pulls, Santa Claus, cookie decorating, artists painting the scene and a strolling minstrel are just some of the activities planned in Waitsfield on December 6 and 7. Building on the success of last year's Country Christmas Open House & Holiday Paint-In, a Top Ten Winter Event, retailers have added more family-friendly activities spanning both Saturday and Sunday.
"If the popularity of the summer events, Music on the Green and Round Up on the River, are any indication, I think the community will welcome the opportunity to gather together in celebration of the holiday season," says Lisa Davis, marketing coordinator for the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce.
"Locals have shown if you give them something to do in The Valley, they will support it and creating a memorable experience gives visitors a reason to return," she added.
Country Christmas Open House was originated 16 years ago as a way to support local shopping before "buy local" was a movement. The Holiday Paint-In, the winter counterpart to August's Plein Air Paint-Out, joined Country Christmas in 2012. Many of the artists have a following so shopkeepers hosting artists will be able to draw more folks through their door.
The International Boutique at the Masonic Lodge draws shoppers from as far away as Montreal. Participating merchants have an opportunity to capture the attention of those who come to Waitsfield with the sole intent of shopping. The festivities will be a bonus for these guests.
The annual Merry Mart at Waitsfield Church will be buzzing with activity as crafters sell their handmade gifts and volunteers serve up chowder, chili, sandwiches and baked goods. Holiday music will ring from the church steeple from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday.
The annual prize drawing motivates shoppers to explore more shops to fill their punch cards. Shoppers can pick up a punch card at stores with a "Participating Merchant" sign; then leave it at the fifth shop for a chance to win prizes donated by businesses throughout The Valley. No purchase is necessary.
This two-day event will feature activities in historic Waitsfield Village and at Mad River Green Shops. Santa Claus will be visiting Bridge Street on Saturday and Mad River Green on Sunday. For a full schedule of activities and list of participating merchants, go to madrivervalley.com.
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