Goodrich – Christmas is a community celebration in Goodrich.
An event started nearly a decade ago, this year’s Dec. 9 Goodrich Downtown Christmas festival is being brought together by the Goodrich-Atlas Chamber of Commerce, United Way of Genesee County, and community volunteers.
Whether you’re looking for picturesque charm, neighborly mingling, or family fun, Goodrich Downtown Christmas has it all.
Bundle up and spend a quaint evening in the village, where a variety of treats await you, like Kettle Corn by Hickmott, Robinson’s Roasted Almonds, warm cider and apples by the Methodist Women, or ‘Soup on the Street? by the American Culinary Federation Chef’s Association.
Both Big Jake’s Pizza & Shakes and Cranberri’s Cafe will be open for dinner during that evening. In addition, Big Jake’s will feature children’s craft-making and popcorn’sponsored by Davison State Bank’and Cranberri’s will feature Santa Claus from 5 to 8 p.m., the ‘Act Four? ladies quartet at 6 p.m., and string music by David M. at 7:30 p.m.
Luminaries, lit by Boy Scout Troop 340, will light the streets of downtown Goodrich, and a live nativity scene will be performed by Methodist Youth.
The junior Girl Scouts will wrap gifts at Northern Exposure Scrapbooking, and ladies will love the holiday makeovers being offered downtown.
For a nostalgic touch, tour the Goodrich-Atlas Historical Museum, which will be open during the evening, or, for a nominal fee, climb aboard a carriage for a horse-drawn tour of historical village sights from 5:30 to 7:30 at the museum.
Youngsters can warm up to the sounds of storytelling in the Goodrich library, where they’ll also find face-painting, cookies, and the Genesee District Library’s ‘Book Mouse?.
Because Christmas especially is a time for sharing, you’ll also find a Toys for Tots Collection by the U.S. Marine Corps.
The Goodrich-Atlas Chamber of Commerce will hold a 50-50 raffle.
When the downtown splendor leaves you a bit too rosy-cheeked, warm yourself around the ambience of a bonfire down in the park, sponsored by the Atlas Township Fire Department, which will keep the fire stoked and in check.
You’ll also find plenty of activity in the park, with the Party Animals petting zoo, the Goodrich High School Jazz Band at 6 p.m., and holiday crafters and vendors at the pavilion.
Don’t miss the highlight of the evening, when the tree lighting and caroling ceremony takes place, this year near the downtown parking lot.
Representatives of the Goodrich United Methodist Church will lead the ceremony. This year’s tree is donated by Davison State Bank.