NORTHVILLIANS,

• Christmas in the Village (Mill Race Historical Village) – Time is running out. I strongly suggest you take a stroll through the Village and experience Christmas of Yesteryear.
   
• December in Downtown Northville – “A Holiday to Remember!” Fridays feature music, Saturdays Horse & Buggy rides, & Sundays live animals for the children.
   
• Watch for Gnomes around town – The gnomes have arrived in the Ville thanks to the DDA, the Chamber and the Northville Art House working together. Find all 30-plus of them in town…for more info see: https://northvillearthouse.org/gnomearoundnorthville/scavengerhunt/ 

Now let’s transition to Christmas activities through time in the Ville:

• Historically, many local support organizations (VFW, American Legion, Woman’s Club, Rotary, Masons and others) have put together Christmas baskets for those in need in our community...these efforts continue today and represent the true spirit of Northville during this season of giving.
• Many Northville traditions have occurred over the years, including an annual Christmas Walk, our Santa Parade & tree lightings along with Christmas Caroling and pumpkin bread sales.
• The Mill Race Village Team has always gotten into the spirit by decorating their Victorian history-woven grounds in period-based holiday decor.
• Holiday shows at the historic Northville Opera House on Dunlap & Center were a highlight of the Christmas Season for all in southeastern Michigan in the 1800’s.
• Additionally, tree lighting ceremonies have occurred since the beginning of electricity in town, creating a canopy of colorful lights across the streets. In recent times, tree lightings have occurred at: the Mill Race Village, the Community Center, Dr. Demray’s Dental Office and Town Square … they are part of our traditions in Northville.
• A 1955 Northville Record article spoke about the tradition of Christmas movies being shown before the holiday break to all school children at the Marquis Theatre (including holiday treats and gifts disbursed by Santa). The Theatre was then called the P & A (Penniman & Allen) and School Superintendent Russell Amerman was Santa.
• Through the years, Santa has come to town by sleigh, car, red pickup, fire truck, train & trolley. And, believe it or not, even by helicopter in 1971, arranged by Chuck Lapham (President of the Retail Merchants Association)!

In closing, I truly wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas with family and friends and others in your life.  I encourage you to engage in your own Holiday traditions in the Ville and again, share your time & talents with those in need during these extraordinary times. Reach out and spread the Holiday Cheer!
 
Keep that Northville Faith & Merry Christmas!