Richmond’s Christmas of Yesteryear celebrates a continuing tradition

By Gregory Harutunian

correspondent

With the Christmas season just around the corner, the annual tradition that has become synonymous with the town of Richmond is set to unfold again in the historic downtown area.

“The Christmas of Yesteryear,” Dec. 3 to 4, turns back the clock to a simpler time with strolling carolers, warm and cozy downtown shoppes, family-friendly events, along with the sights and sounds of the season.

“It’s become an annual Richmond tradition, a phenomenal family event that we look forward to, each and every year,” said Nannette Dorfler, a Richmond business member and event organizer. “It also brings back memories of how it was, during the Christmas season long ago, and it also creates new memories each year.”

The event highlighting Richmond businesses in a festive manner is also strewn with numerous family-friendly activities that explore a different aspect of the holiday season, whether through pancake breakfasts, holiday music, the cheerful lighting, or “cookie walks.”

The primary organizers are Polly Fishback and Nannettee Dorfler, of the First State Bank of McHenry in Richmond, Carolyn Janus, owner of Skooper’s Ice Cream and Coffee Shoppe, and Richmond Village President Lauri Olson.

“There’s a whole variety of event that have been planned, and I’m very excited about it,” said Dorfler. “It’s a great time to visit the downtown, experience the warmth, and see the smiles of everybody’s faces and smiles, especially the kids.”

The celebration kicks off Saturday morning with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and their elves at Richmond’s Memorial Hall, from noon to 4 p.m., to hear Christmas wishes and visit with children. The elves are members of the Richmond-Burton Community High School Key Club, an adjunct of the Kiwanis of Richmond and Spring Grove, with kid’s crafts, refreshments, a poinsettia plant sale, and the St. Joseph’s Church annual cookie walk.

Downtown Richmond has free wagon rides, also on Sunday, courtesy of Rich Jacobson. Spring Grove Fire Chief Rich Tobiacz is on board to tell stories as the wagon makes its way around the business district. The Community Church Soup Luncheon and Craft Fair, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., is taking place at 5714 Broadway Street.

With carolers strolling the avenues, the annual tree-lighting ceremony illuminates the village’s tree in Stevens Park, at Main and Broadway streets. Santa Claus will arrive to officiate the event in one of the vintage fire trucks owned by the Richmond Volunteer Fire Protection District.

A coloring contest page and “Letter to Santa” can be dropped off at Skooper’s, located at 10321 Main Street. “It’s a wonderful time of year, and the festivities add to the fun. We also need to remember the reason for the season, our Lord, Jesus Christ.”

The Richmond Firefighter’s Association hosts the “Breakfast with Santa,” from 9 a.m. to noon, Sunday. The popular event is well attended each year, and all-you-can-eat items are the favorite morning staples.

Richmond’s Hidden Treasures, a game to identify all the items on a list that have been placed in downtown storefronts, qualifies contestants to win a grand prize.

“Don’t forget the Clark Griswold House Decorating Contest, now in its fourth year,” said Dorfler. The contest, sponsored by Van’s Supermarket, is an homage to the famous National Lampoon Christmas movie, and contestants vie for the most amazing and brightest light displays to cover their residences.

Members of the Richmond Citizens Police Academy will be assisting downtown visitors with parking, and volunteering their time to help the event run smoothly. “They will be there to provide assistance and answer questions regarding directions to sites,” said Vanessa Everett, Richmond’s village clerk.

For more information on events, schedules, and activities, contact Carolyn at Skooper’s Ice Cream and Coffee Shoppe by calling (815) 678-4124.

 


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