Every year, around this time, Santa makes his rounds so that many children around the world can sit with him and tell him what they want for Christmas. He has to do this early in the month while the elves are back at the North Pole making the toys and gifts, readying the sleigh, and exercising the reindeer. Hence, they are in tip-top shape for their “one-night-only” trek around the globe.
Suppose you are lucky enough to live in or near Marshall, Illinois. In that case, you can take the kiddos to meet the Jolly-bellied, red-suited man himself in more than one location before the big day. Get the cameras ready and make some memories.
Let’s Hope to See Santa at the Marshall Christmas Parade
It’s a good bet that Santa will appear in Downtown Marshall on Saturday, December 3rd. The parade starts at 6 pm, and it would be wise to get down early and scope out your spot. Wear your hat and coat; it could get chilly. Come down early and get some shopping done before the parade kicks off. Shopping local is all the rage, so be part of the Shop Local movement.
Hometown Holly Days
Suppose you want an early start on shopping on Saturday; head over to Harlan Hall at 603 Locust St, Marshall, for Hometown Holly days. On Saturday, December 3rd, hours are 9 am to 2 pm and 4 pm to 8 pm.
Santa will be on hand at the breakfast event, so stop by and see him.
There will also be a silent auction of 10 fresh Christmas trees.
The event is hosted by Marshall Main Street, which is a non-profit dedicated to marketing and promoting the lovely downtown area of Marshall. Learn more about them and how you can volunteer or donate on their website at – https://marshallilmainstreet.com/index.html
Big photo ops with Santa – best places to see him soon
The Log Cabin, Marshall:
Santa will be at the Log Cabin in Marshall on December 4th, 11th, and 18th. You are invited to take pictures with him from 12-4 pm each of those days.
Ewing Garden Barn:
Santa will be on hand to visit with and take pictures on December 3rd from 10 am to 4 pm and December 4th from 12 pm to 4 pm.
Not only can you see Santa, but it’s a great place to get your trees and wreaths for the holiday.
Hot cocoa and cookies will be available. Local artisans will be set up selling crafts, and kids can make their own ornaments at the crafts area.
Bring a gift for someone less fortunate, as Ewing Garden Barn will be collecting toys for Toys for Tots.
Alvey’s Acres:
Head down to Alvey’s Acres for three days of fun at their event, “A Country Christmas!! They are located at 24077 E 1510th rd. Marshall, IL
The event will feature local vendors selling handmade/homemade items. They have a fully stocked greenhouse where you will find many house plants and holiday planters. You will find gift items from kitchen gadgets to alpaca goods, clothes, furniture, and even something for pets.
Santa will be on hand for pictures. There will be a free hot chocolate bar and sweet treats too.
The kids will have a blast making their own gifts and treasures in the craft area while you shop.
Dates and times are:
Friday, December 9th, from 4 pm to 7 pm
Saturday, December 10th, from 9 am to 5 pm
and Sunday, December 11th, from 12 pm to 5 pm
Cookies, cookies, and more cookies
If you love cookies (and let’s face it, we all LOVE cookies), get down to St Mary’s annual cookie walk located at 414 S 6th St, Marshall, on December 3rd from 9 am to 11 am. You can purchase the many creative and festive cookies that will be on sale. But get there early before they are all gone!
If you wish to donate cookies for the sale, drop off all cookie donations on Friday, December 2nd, between 5 pm and 6:30 pm. Be sure to list all the ingredients, especially nuts, for those who might have allergies.
Wherever you go to see Santa, remember to keep it local, shop local, and enjoy the wonderful Marshall, Illinois community. Invest in the local economy, find unique items you can’t buy online or at the big box stores, and enjoy the personal service you get when you shop in a small local business. It’s the best way to give back to the community we all cherish.
Being Ho! Ho! Home for the holidays is always the best!
Original source can be found here
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