MATTOON — From getting the right chair for Santa to mapping a bump-free mini-train ride, the organizers of the Dec. 4 Downtown Celebration are making a list of tasks and checking it twice.
Meeting Monday morning at Warner’s Office Equipment, the group of about 15 business owners and community supporters announced that 5-7 p.m. Dec. 4 is this year’s second Christmas celebration for the town’s oldest business district. The effort is designed to spark a new Christmas tradition similar to the times when the downtown twinkled and made precious memories for families.
“A lot of people remember how it was in the downtown when they were younger, years ago. The town has changed but Christmas is still special for the downtown,” said Barb McKenzie, who led the discussion on the preparations.
The second edition of the celebration will include decorations in participating businesses, drawings for a basket of prizes, rides in the Camp New Hope mini-train, some refreshments and, of course, a visit from Santa Claus. The train route will remain in the downtown area.
Some changes this year might include having Santa visit with children in the Mattoon Public Library. Last year, the jolly elf was hoofing it between some stores, but some organizers said a central location might be easier on him and his audience.
One proposal would have some donated prizes from businesses pooled together for a large drawing. Visitors will be encouraged via the drawing to enter a number of stores during the celebration.
Another goal is to get a taste of Christmas going with the fest.
Volunteers are encouraged to come forward to help out with arrangements. The next meeting of the Downtown Celebration committee is 8:30 a.m. Nov. 23 at Warner’s.
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