A good time for all at Holiday Stroll in Great Barrington
“I would like to say that Great Barrington is one of the nicest towns I’ve ever been in,” Santa Claus told The Berkshire Edge as he walked down Main Street with his elves. “I think most of the kids have been good this year. Merry Christmas to all!”
Santa Claus rides down Main Street in Great Barrington as part of the Holiday Shop, Sip, and Stroll on Saturday, Dec. 13. Photo by Shaw Israel Izikson.
Great Barrington — Holiday cheer abounded as hundreds of people attended the 16th annual Holiday Shop, Sip, and Stroll on Saturday, December 13, organized by the Southern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce.
There were plenty of family activities throughout the downtown area, including games and activities for children; sales at Main Street stores; music performances; vendor fairs; a Menorah, Kinara, and Christmas tree lighting; and the jolly old elf himself, Santa Claus, making a visit to Great Barrington.
Elves announcing the arrival of Santa Claus at the Holiday Shop, Sip, and Stroll. Photo by Shaw Israel Izikson.Santa Claus arriving at the Holiday Shop, Sip, and Stroll. Photo by Shaw Israel Izikson.Santa marches down Main Street with his elves. Photo by Shaw Israel Izikson.
“One of the reasons why this event has always been successful is because there are so many activities going, which means there is always something for everyone,” Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Betsy Andrus told The Berkshire Edge. “All of the activities at this event are free, so there are no barriers to anyone. This is a great way to see your neighbors, friends, and others you haven’t seen in a while. It’s a great way to enjoy a few hours out in Great Barrington and get yourself in the mood for the holidays, whatever holiday you celebrate. Also, we love our town, and we love supporting our local businesses.”
Chamber volunteer Anne Engelberger (left) and Executive Director Betsy Andrus (right). Photo by Shaw Israel Izikson.The event included live musical performances, Santa Claus greeting and meeting children, and roasting marshmallows by an open fire. Photos by Shaw Israel Izikson.Local students who took part in the Holiday Shop, Sip, and Stroll. Some of the students took part in the holiday market at the First Congregational Church and Pittsfield Coop parking lots, while others took part in the live windows part of the event, dressing up as holiday characters in storefront windows. Photos by Shaw Israel Izikson.Irene Rosenzweig and Wendy Jennis from Hevreh, one of the many vendors at the holiday marketplace. Photo by Shaw Israel Izikson.Seth Keyes, executive director of Saint James Place. The venue hosted some activities during the Holiday Shop, Sip, and Stroll. “What’s not to love about the holiday season?” Keyes said. “The holidays are all about goodwill, fellowship, and everyone loves this time of year. It doesn’t matter what religion or faith you follow because there is always goodwill in the air in December, and it’s a wonderful thing.” Photo by Shaw Israel Izikson.A model railroad on display at Saint James Place as part of the Holiday Shop, Sip, and Stroll. Photo by Shaw Israel Izikson.Carl Spizz, 13, and Emery de St Andre, 13, selling crepes outside of Bon Dimanche on Railroad Street. Photo by Shaw Israel Izikson.Engine 5 from the Stockbridge Fire Department, one of the many emergency vehicles decked out in holiday lights for the Parade of Lights. Photo by Shaw Israel Izikson.
“I would like to say that Great Barrington is one of the nicest towns I’ve ever been in,” Santa Claus told The Berkshire Edge as he walked down Main Street with his elves. “I think most of the kids have been good this year. Merry Christmas to all!”
For more information about the Southern Berkshire Chamber of Commerce, visit their website.
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