By 1812Blockhouse
Downtown Shelby will transform into a winter wonderland on Sunday, December 1 as the beloved Christmas in the City event ushers in the holiday season with an exciting lineup of family-friendly activities, delicious treats, and festive entertainment. From 10:00 AM to well into the evening, the streets of Shelby will be alive with holiday cheer, offering something special for visitors of all ages.
With an array of activities, a vibrant vendor market, and the much-anticipated evening parade, this year’s event promises to make spirits bright.
Family-Friendly Activities for All
Kick off your holiday celebrations at Whispering Willow Way & Back to Our Roots Apothecary, where cookie decorating and crafts will be in full swing from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This hands-on activity is perfect for children and adults alike, offering an opportunity to create festive treats and decorations in a warm, welcoming setting.
For families looking for extra sparkle, Liberty Ink will be offering free temporary tattoos and stickers from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, adding a fun, artistic twist to your day. Meanwhile, a Winter Walk-Through hosted by Tiger Paw Karate at Blackfork Commons Plaza from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM invites attendees to experience the beauty of the season in an immersive, outdoor setting.
From 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM, families can enjoy dedicated children’s activities in the downtown area, featuring crafts, games, and fun surprises for young visitors.
At the Dove Candle Bar, young crafters can create their own scented masterpieces, with $3.99 kids’ candles available throughout the afternoon. Complimentary hot chocolate and refreshments will keep everyone warm as they explore downtown.
Holiday Shopping at the Vendor Market
Looking for unique gifts or festive decor? The Vendor Market will be open from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM, featuring local artisans and small businesses offering everything from handmade crafts to holiday treats. It’s the perfect opportunity to pick up one-of-a-kind items for everyone on your list while supporting the local community.
Meet Santa, the Grinch, and More
Disney fans will be thrilled to meet Elsa and Anna at The Holiday Store from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, where the beloved Frozen characters will be spreading cheer and taking photos with attendees. Santa himself will be making an appearance at The Vault from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with free hot chocolate provided to keep the holiday spirit alive. The Vault will also host a brunch from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM and a pizza buffet from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM (both ticketed).
Meanwhile, the Old Firehouse will feature live reindeer from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, an enchanting experience sure to delight animal lovers of all ages. Visitors can also enjoy free hot chocolate while learning about Santa’s four-legged helpers.
For those who love a bit of holiday mischief, don’t miss the chance to meet the Grinch at The Well after the parade.
Holiday Treats to Warm the Soul
The Eagles will be serving free hot cider and donuts from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM, offering a cozy respite from the chilly weather. Over at The Shelby Thrift Store, families can participate in a coloring contest from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, with prizes for three winners and complimentary hot chocolate, coffee, and cookies for participants.
Stop by Black Fork Brewing from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM for cookies, hot chocolate, and a photo opportunity. After the parade, Webers will welcome visitors with $.80 wings and free candy treats for parade-goers.
Evening Magic: The Parade and Beyond
The highlight of the evening will be Shelby’s Christmas Parade, kicking off at 6:00 PM. This beloved tradition will light up downtown with festive floats, marching bands, and holiday music, spreading cheer throughout the community.
Following the parade, visitors can enjoy carriage rides through Shelby’s twinkling streets, offering a magical way to conclude the evening’s festivities.
Giving Back During the Holidays
The holiday season is also a time for giving, and Thistle and Oak Tattoo Studio will be collecting hats and gloves for ROC (Reaching Our Community) from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Attendees can drop off donations while exploring Gallipot’s unique products, making it a great way to give back to the community.
A Day Full of Christmas Cheer
With dozens of activities, a vendor market, and opportunities for holiday shopping, Christmas in the City is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season in Shelby. Bring the whole family and experience the joy of the season in this charming downtown setting. Whether you’re crafting, shopping, enjoying warm cider, or snapping photos with Santa, you’ll leave with memories to cherish.
