The Geneva Chamber of Commerce is set to roll out its annual Christmas Walk this Friday beginning at 6 p.m. which will again bring thousands to the downtown area in Geneva to take part in a tradition that has spanned nearly seven decades.
The annual celebration at the start of the Christmas season will include carolers, a visit from Santa and the illuminating of the courthouse lawn with lights along with the city’s Christmas tree between 6 and 6:30 p.m.
Organizers said this year’s walk will continue the traditions of the former Candy Cane Parade begun back around 2010 when the late Bob Untiedt, owner of Graham’s Chocolates in Geneva, began Bob’s Candy Cane Parade.
The event will begin with the offering of the first candy cane of the season to Geneva Mayor Kevin Burns at Graham’s at 302 S. Third St. The procession will then head north to the courthouse for the tree-lighting.
A press release from the Chamber of Commerce adds that “the events continue with roasted chestnuts, strolling carolers, a live nativity and special offerings from Geneva merchants.”
Johanna Patterson, communications director for the Geneva Chamber of Commerce, said this will be the 68th year the Christmas Walk has been held.
“We like our traditions. I think that this is a really special night where the town kind of feels magical,” Patterson said. “We have the chestnuts roasting, carolers on the street, Santa comes, there’s something for everyone old and young. I think the town just kind of comes alive. It feels really festive and it’s a one-night-only so it just feels like the opening of the holiday season.”
The event is always a popular one, Patterson said.
“We know there are always thousands and while this isn’t the biggest event in the year since it’s just one night it’s a must for many,” Patterson said. “That said, it’s a very festive night as all the shops are open late so there are specials at the stores and restaurants. This is something that isn’t necessarily weather dependent. We’ve had people in the cold and the rain in years past. People really love to come and see the tree and the first candy cane. They come rain or snow or sleet.”
Patterson said that stores along Third Street will be open late during the event offering Christmas specials “as well as our restaurants that have been booking people in advance and offering specials as well.”
“We haven’t added anything really new this year. This is a deeply-seated tradition here and people want to see their favorites,” she said.
David Sharos is a freelance reporter for The Beacon-News.
