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Shop, Dine and Celebrate in Downtown State College
Unique stores, diverse dining options and traditional holiday events make Downtown State College the place to be this holiday season — and it all kicks off Friday with the annual holiday tree lighting event.
Here are just a few “must do” downtown events this holiday season:
HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING
On Friday, Nov. 16, Downtown State College rings in the holiday season at 5:30 p.m. with a tree lighting at the Allen Street mall. Every year, the community gathers to sing carols, enjoy cookies and treats and welcome Santa.
Donations are collected for the State College Area Food Bank and Toys for Tots, and one lucky donor is chosen to help Santa light up the tree.
Musical performances and a variety of community groups keep the celebration going as children get their first opportunity of the season to talk with Santa. It’s a great way to get in the holiday spirit.
DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
On Saturday, Nov. 17, visit downtown for a holiday open house. Visit favorite shops and restaurants and get a jump start on the shopping list. Enjoy demonstrations, refreshments, raffles and giveaways at participating businesses.
SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY
Now in its ninth year, Small Business Saturday, on Saturday, Nov. 24, is a way to support small, locally owned businesses that make the downtown special.
While this day has become a national event, Downtown State College encourages shoppers to make each day of the entire holiday season “Small Business Day.”
“THE POLAR EXPRESS” AND SANTA’S WORKSHOP
“The Polar Express” event has become so popular with young families, it covers two weekends and registration fills up in a matter of hours.
The adventure starts in the Children’s Department at Schlow Centre Region Library, where volunteers read the book “The Polar Express.” Then, families take a trolley to Santa’s Workshop, where Santa is on hand to greet and take photos with every child. After visiting with Santa, children enter the workshop and pick out a free toy. The last stop is the craft table, where kids receive a printed copy of their photo with Santa.
Santa’s Workshop is a cooperative effort of the Downtown State College Rotary Club and the Downtown Improvement District.
“The Polar Express” will be held Saturday, Dec. 1, and Sunday, Dec. 2, and Saturday, Dec. 8, and Sunday, Dec. 9. Register for this free event beginning at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 27, by stopping by Schlow Library or calling (814) 237-6236.
Beginning Monday, Nov. 26, visitors will receive free parking validations from downtown businesses, redeemable for up to four hours at all three municipal garages. In addition, all downtown parking will be free Monday, Dec. 17, through Tuesday, Dec. 25.
Take advantage of unlimited parking in the municipal garages so you can shop and dine all day. While parking will be free on the street and in borough lots, time limits still will be enforced.
And, Downtown State College gift cards make perfect stocking stuffers. Gift cards are valid at more than 100 downtown locations and are available online at www.downtownstatecollege.com or at the Downtown State College Improvement District office at 127 S. Fraser St.
Rob Schmidt is executive director of the Downtown State College Improvement District