Contributed photo.
LUDINGTON — Downtown Ludington is preparing to kick off the holiday season on Saturday, November 29, featuring Small Business Saturday, the Aglow on the Avenue Parade, and the annual community tree lighting.
Local leaders and business owners are emphasizing the importance of supporting small, locally owned shops during the holiday season.
“Every purchase made downtown has a ripple effect,” said Brandy Miller, Chamber Alliance of Mason County president/CEO. “When residents shop locally, they’re helping our community thrive. Those dollars stay right here — supporting local sports teams, charities, and community events, and providing jobs for our neighbors. Shopping small truly strengthens the fabric of our community, and the holidays are a great time to look local.”
Small Business Saturday will kick off the celebration from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., as merchants open their doors for festive open houses, special deals, and refreshments. Shoppers can browse a variety of local shops while enjoying Christmas music throughout the downtown.
Adding extra holiday charm this year, many downtown windows will be transformed for a new decorating contest. Visitors downtown are encouraged to vote for their favorite displays, with each vote entering them into a weekly drawing for Downtown Ludington Dollars, redeemable at more than 40 participating businesses.
The celebration continues into the evening with the Aglow on the Avenue Holiday Parade, beginning at 6 p.m. The parade will travel East down Ludington Avenue from Gaylord Avenue to Harrison Street, featuring illuminated floats, community groups, and appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus. Following the parade, families are invited to gather in Legacy Plaza for the community Christmas tree lighting, a tradition that marks the official start of the holiday season in downtown Ludington. The Ludington High School Choir and Ludington Youth Choir will be performing ahead of the tree lighting.
Ushering in the holiday season, these events underscore the importance of shopping local and celebrating the people and places that make every downtown visit a truly special experience.
In addition, children may mail letters to Santa at his Santa’s mailbox, located at Legacy Plaza, so get those Christmas lists ready! Remember to write your return address on your letter so you can receive return mail from Santa. Deadline: December 18.
Other Holiday Activities Happening Downtown
In addition to these exciting events, the downtown district will host a variety of holiday activities, including:
- S.S. Badger Pop-up Shop – Adding a unique shopping experience this year, Lake Michigan Carferry is hosting a pop-up shop in the Jamesport Brewing Company building. Browse nostalgic S.S. Badger merchandise and cherish memories aboard the historical ship. This pop-up shop will be open until December 21.
- West Shore Bank is hosting “Carriage Rides for a Cause,” starting at the bank’s parking lot, 201 W. Loomis Street, from 3:30-5:10 p.m. on Saturday, November 29. Bring two wish list items for a 20-minute, horse-drawn carriage adventure around town Hospitality, Inc. is this year’s beneficiary.
- A Holiday Open House at Red Door Gallery will be held from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on November 15, 22 and 29. Enjoy seasonal refreshments, homemade cookies, complimentary gift wrapping and 10% off gallery-wide.
- Stage Left Theatre Company presents Ken Ludwig’s “Twas the Night Before Christmas” at 2 p.m. Saturday, November 29 at Ludington Area Center for the Arts. The plot: “Twas the night before Christmas… and guess what? Something is stirring! When Santa skips a house; a clever mouse, a rookie elf, and one determined little girl team up to save Christmas — with plenty of laughs along the way.”
- The Art of Giving Holiday Market will be held from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, November 29 at Ludington Area Center for the Arts, featuring handmade gifts by local artisans. This market will run through December 18.
The community is encouraged to come downtown and kick off the holiday season with unforgettable, family-friendly experiences! For more information, visit downtownludington.org.
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