Hometown Holidays on the Square
The Showstoppers always gather an audience. These kids put their all into the performances under the direction of Jessica Tucker. Photo | PJ Martin
By PJ Martin
Editor
The Herald-News
A lot was going on in the small town of Edmonton for the 9th year of Hometown Holiday on the Square (formerly Shop Around the Square). This year was even larger with Community Medical Care (CMC) partnering with the Edmonton-Metcalfe Chamber of Commerce and bringing new activities.
Some of the new activities were the petting zoo, carriage rides, and Christmas movies playing in the courthouse yard sponsored by ASAP. The attendees had plenty of activities and food choices with several local food trucks also attending.
The Metcalfe County Historical Society held tours of the Courthouse Museum and historic jail and there were plenty of shopping opportunities for all.
Starting immediately after the tree lighting was the annual Christmas Climb Expedition 5K Run/Walk held by Jessica Tucker beginning at the square and ending at the city park where Yeti was standing by.
Of course, it wouldn’t be Christmas without pictures with Santa hosted by CMC or the 6th annual Christmas Tree lighting presented by the City of Edmonton. The Showstoppers, local talent, and The Hornet’s Nest Pickers all performed in front of City Hall prior to the tree lighting and folks enjoyed hot cider, hot chocolate, and cookies while they waited.
The alpacas, goats, and ponies were festively dressed at the petting zoo which was sponsored by Edmonton State Bank. Photo | PJ Martin
The sidewalks were busy with people going to participating businesses to get their cards punched for the chamber drawing. Others were waiting for their chance to take a carriage ride around town. The carriage rides were sponsored by TJ Health Edmonton Clinic. Photo | PJ Martin
I wonder what she is telling Santa she wants for Christmas? Photo | Kim Harwood
Caroling for Christ in the Courtyard with the Metcalfe County Elementary Choir. A good-sized crowd gathered to listen. Photo | Kim Harwood
Caroling for Christ in the Courtyard with musicians and members of Grace Union Baptist Church and Cedar Flat Church. Photo | Kim Harwood
Mayor Doug Smith lit the city Christmas Tree along with Santa at the end of the day’s events. Photo | PJ Martin
