ORLEANS — The holiday spirit is set to shine brightly in Orleans this weekend as the Orleans Chamber of Commerce hosts its 15th Annual Christmas on the Square event. The festivities are scheduled for Saturday, December 13th, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the historic town park square.
Chamber Executive Director Robert F. Henderson issued a warm invitation to the public: “We would like to invite everyone to bundle up and come out and join us downtown for all the festivities this Saturday. We sincerely hope the event provides some fun and warm holiday memories for our area families.”
Grand Arrival and Festive Entertainment
The star attractions, Santa and Mrs. Claus, are scheduled to make their grand entrance around 5 p.m. They will arrive in style via the town’s nearly century-old antique fire truck, complete with a police escort. Following their arrival, they will be available on the bandstand to greet children and pose for pictures.
The evening’s schedule is packed with free and low-cost entertainment for all ages:
- Live Performances: Enjoy holiday music from the Orleans High School Choir and Band members, plus a special performance by the Dazzlers and Orleans Jr. High Dance Team.
- Unique Encounters: Attendees will have the chance to experience a children’s train ride and a magical Elf & Live Reindeer encounter.
- Classic Fun: Horse & carriage rides will circle the square, adding a touch of classic charm to the evening.
Community Partners Offer Treats and Crafts
Several local organizations are teaming up to enhance the celebration:
- Warm Treats: Orleans Tri Kappa will be set up in the park, serving warm treats and drinks to help ward off the winter chill.
- Special Gifts: Orleans Phi Beta Psi will be handing out complimentary Christmas light-viewing glasses.
- Creative Fun: The Orleans Library will host a fun holiday “make and take it” craft activity on the square.
- Local Stop: Kirk Vet Services, located on the south side of the square, will be open, offering crafts for the kids, hot chocolate, cider, and coffee.
“Postcards to Santa”
Children looking to ensure their wishes reach the North Pole can pick up free “Postcards to Santa” at the Orleans Chamber’s Visitor’s Center on the north side of the square. “Santa’s Mailbox” is located in front of the Chamber office for convenient mailing.
Afternoon Activities Kick Off the Day
The holiday fun begins earlier in the day with activities surrounding the square:
- 11th Annual Santa Hat Run/Walk: The run/walk kicks off at a new start time of 3:00 p.m. (Meet at the bandstand at 2:45 p.m.). This free event welcomes all ages and encourages participants to wear their best Santa hats and festive attire.
- Free Holiday Concert: From 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., a Free Holiday Concert will be held at the Orleans Methodist Church, located on the southwest corner of the square.
- Live Nativity: The Orleans Methodist Church will also collaborate with Bonds Chapel to present the traditional Christmas Story via a Live Nativity scene on the west side of the town square.
Many downtown eateries and shop owners are expected to keep their doors open during the event, offering dinner and shopping opportunities.
