By Audrey Posten
Guttenberg will come alive with festive cheer on Saturday, Nov. 29, for the day-long Christmas by the River celebration, capped off by a lighted parade.
“We wanted to bring back an old-fashioned Christmas experience,” said Beth Sadewasser, who’s organizing the event with fellow Guttenberg Chamber of Commerce board member Nancy Nuehring.
Held on the nationally-celebrated Small Business Saturday, Christmas by the River encourages attendees to support the community’s small businesses. New this year, local vendors who make hand-crafted items will also be set up inside some downtown businesses and buildings.
“That’s different than in past years,” said Sadewasser. “The goal is to bring people downtown and bring life to the event.”
Holiday spirits will be available at many locations, and some businesses will host kids crafts beginning at 1 p.m. Decorate cookies with Kim’s Little Bake Shop, then make a Grinch ornament at Kuempel Hardware, a Santa magnet at Driftwood Diner, a snowman ornament at Joe’s Pizza, a wooden ornament at Sodes Green Acre Country Market and Cafe and Christmas cards at Guttenberg Brewery.
“There will be lots for kids to do,” Sadewasser said. “Parents can shop while the kids are busy with activities. It gets people into the businesses.”
Families can visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the welcome center. The Grinch and an elf will also make appearances during the day. Snap a pic or two at photo-op booths and participate in a sticker hunt.
Wandering carolers will spread the sounds of the season during the afternoon.
“People can join in and sing too,” Sadewasser said.
For the first time ever, visitors will witness a live nativity celebrating the meaning of the season. Organized by the Clayton Ridge play directors, the nativity will begin at 4:30 p.m. and feature live actors and animals.
“It’s going to be unique because it’s through the eyes of the animals in the stable,” noted Sadewasser.
The day will wrap up with the annual Christmas by the River parade at 5 p.m. Watch as lighted floats and vehicles, music and holiday cheer fill the streets. Line-up will be in front of Clayton Ridge School.
“We’re encouraging people to participate,” Sadewasser said.
She hopes it’s a fun day of making memories and supporting local.
“We need to support local businesses because they support us,” she shared.
