Christmas Kick Off

DAYTON–Now that the turkey, dressing and pumpkin pie has settled, wrap up warm and head to downtown Dayton for the annual Christmas celebration put on by the Dayton Chamber of Commerce here in "The Town That Still Believes." Christmas Kickoff 2023 gets under way Friday and Saturday, November 24 and 25.

The weather should cooperate, according to the National Weather Service, with some freezing fog predicted before 10 a.m. in the region, then sunny with a high near 40° F. The Friday evening fireworks should be bright and clear as mostly clear skies are forecast. Sunshine and brisk temperatures are expected on Saturday as well.

On Friday, November 24 at 10 a.m. while our town comes alive with holiday festivities of mule drawn carriage rides, an Ugly Sweater 5k Dash, peruse the Festival of Trees, see what's new at the Holiday Market, watch a free Christmas movie, "The Polar Express," at the Liberty Theater, gather to watch the live nativity event behind Dingle's of Dayton, featuring Izzy the Camel.

See real reindeer, make and take kid crafts, carolers, the lighted Christmas Parade, tree lighting, fireworks and of course Santa Claus then stop by the Wenaha Gallery for Selfies with Santa. Kids will also have an opportunity to write a letter to Santa and leave it in the Santa mailbox. Be sure to stop by all the shops in town and let them know you live and shop local. Include a visit to the Historic Dayton Depot and the Boldman House for seasonal displays and traditions.

Don't miss the Festival of Trees, and "Selfies with Santa" at 219 E. Main Street (formerly Wenaha Gallery). The "trees" and "selfies" also take place Saturday morning beginning at 10 a.m.

Find the schedule of events for this year's Christmas Kick-off on page 10 of the Dayton Chronicle's November 23, 2023 edition.