Natalie Gordon and Mariah Allen of the River Church’s wandering live nativity in downtown Goodrich in 2015. Photo by David Fleet.

By David Fleet

Editor

From 5-9 p.m., Dec. 1, Santa Claus will be seeking both the nice and naughty as he visits the Goodrich Downtown Christmas.

“The annual downtown Christmas event will be bigger and more festive than ever this year,” said Patty Plant, owner of Cranberries Cafe, 10250 Hegel Road. “There’s plenty of new activities to kick off the holiday season as well as some traditional favorites. Stop by Cranberries and get warm while enjoying some live music.”

Hegel Road will be closed in the downtown area during the celebration to provide safe Christmas fun for the entire family. At 6 p.m. the community Christmas tree will be lighted, followed by Pastor Jon Grimshaw of Lakeview Community Church leading the community in prayer and the story of Christmas. The evening will also feature the Goodrich United Methodist Church choir with traditional Christmas carols. The streets will be lined with luminaries courtesy of Goodrich Boy Scout Troop 340, the River Church’s wandering live nativity and carolers will be on the streets to welcome visitors. In addition, the Goodrich High School Choir will provide some seasonal carols during the evening.

Santa Claus will be available during the evening for Christmas suggestions and interviews at Liberty Way Realty in downtown. The Goodrich Library will be open to visitors upstairs as Lucy’s Pet Supplies & Feed Store will provide some rather unique crafts for kids.

Check out a variety of street vendors including L & M Kettle Popcorn,Young Living Essential Oils, Hannah’s Jeweltique and Charlotte’s Baked Goods. The Goodrich Schools music program, robotics team and softball boosters will provide snacks and gifts.

Take a free ride wagon ride around the village offered by Top-Hill Farms, 5767 Fox Road, Goodrich. From 6-8 p.m., the Ladies Library Museum in downtown Goodrich will also be open providing hot chocolate and cookies courtesy of the historical society.