Did you notice how late Thanksgiving was this year? If you feel the Christmas season coming at you in a pent up rush, that’s why. The great news is there are so many ways you can jumpstart your holiday mood this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday downtown–it’s time to make a plan!
Friday, December 6th
On Friday night, bring your friends and family to the Chamber of Commerce parking lot at 9th and Commercial at 6:00 for the sparkling annual tree lighting ceremony. The Salvation Army will serve hot chocolate and local school choirs will sing carols. Enjoy a performance by Fidalgo DanceWorks and get your picture with Santa! Afterward you can take everyone over to the Anacortes Cinemas for a free screening of Elf, the movie. That’s a lot of merry making…all free!
Also on Friday the 6th is the First Friday Artwalk. Scott Milo Gallery will be open for a reception with the artists–stroll down to 420 Commercial and see what’s on display. If you haven’t been in recently you may be surprised at the small items available alongside paintings and sculptures. Yes, you can afford to give art-y gifts this season! Continue to marvel at the talents of our creative community by moseying south on Commercial and stopping by the dozen-plus merchants hosting artists’ works. You’ll discover amazing works all the way up to clayhouse at 910 Commercial, and while you’re there you can make three ornaments for $30.
Saturday, December 7th
Start off the next morning by assembling at 3rd and O at 10:00 for the annual Walk with Santa parade starting at 11:00. The Anacortes Lions, the event’s sponsor, asks you to dress in your holiday finery. Everyone is welcome!
Saturday is also the kickoff for the annual Charm Walk, with more than 20 businesses handing out charms for your bracelet. To register, go to the Chamber of Commerce website, anacortes.org, learn more about this fun event and register.
While you’re enjoying downtown Anacortes on Saturday, be sure to drop in to Alley Cat Antiques‘ spanking new storefront at 616 Commercial. It’s the grand opening of their new location–stop by and congratulate the crew!
The Creative Hub and Coffeehouse is excited to host Rosemary, of Gray Rose Creations, and her whimsical glassware and paintings, at the holiday market at the Depot from 10:00 until 3:00. This is the final market of 2024, so come browse!
Finally on Saturday, Fidalgo Danceworks presents their Winter Celebration at Brodniak Hall at the high school with two performances: 2:00 and 6:00. To get information and tickets, visit the organization’s website.
Sunday, December 8th
Top off a jolly weekend at Adrift, as they open the doors for their annual Holiday Gift Show at 510 Commercial from noon to 5:00. In addition to browsing the handcrafted items on display and chatting with the makers, you can choose from a festive menu of small plates and drinks. For a special treat, Seas the Day will be on hand with fresh shucked oysters!
So if your stockings are sagging and your tinsel looks tired, downtown Anacortes can fix you right up. Choose an event or three and come on down!
