By Kate Bartlett
The Ellicottville Christmas Stroll has been a favorite community tradition for 38 years. It was inspired by a group of women in the community who wanted to create a festive, meaningful holiday tradition for families of Ellicottville to enjoy together. This year, the event will take place on Saturday, December 13th. As always, it is free and open to the public.
Gwen Bush, organizer of the Christmas Stroll, has been involved with this event for several years. According to Gwen, this beloved tradition originated with a small, passionate group and has grown into a cherished event that celebrates the heart of the Ellicottville community. “Ellicottville is a wonderful place to slow down, enjoy the village, and take in the true spirit of the holiday season,” says Gwen. “Come out, walk the streets, and remind yourself what this time of year is really about.”
The event begins at 4PM, with the arrival of the elves by horse-drawn carriage. The elves spread out through the village; some will pass out candy and small toys, while others will be serving hot cocoa and cookies in the Alpine Bistro from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. Horse-drawn carriage rides will run from 4:10 to 5:15 p.m. At 4:15 p.m. the Reindog Parade will step off in front of the Post Office.
New this year is the Winter Holiday Character Parade at 5pm. Community members are invited to join the fun dressed as their favorite holiday character. “We hope to see Frosty, the Grinch, Santa, Cindy Lou Who, and many more,” says Gwen. “There may even be a special surprise from the Stroll elves for the best-dressed characters.”
At 6:00 p.m. the Christmas Stroll procession will begin at the gazebo. Angels, shepherds, and even a camel will walk the streets with the Ellicottville Central School High School Select Chorus singing as they go. The evening will end back at the gazebo with the telling of the story of the very first Christmas.
This year’s Holy Family will be played by Alissa and Joseph Steger as Mary and Joseph, with Baby Suzi as Jesus, joined by big sister Savannah and brothers Paul and William.
“The Christmas Stroll has blossomed into a magical winter holiday event, hosted by The Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce and brought to life by the children of our community,” says Gwen. “From the youngest participants like Baby Jesus, who is often six months old or younger, to high school students, everyone has a role.”
Over the years, the event remains similar but has evolved since its inception. Originally, adults took the lead in setting up the event, but now it is primarily driven by the energy and enthusiasm of students and their parents. “This shift has made it even more special, as it brings the community together across generations,” describes Gwen.
The Christmas Stroll is a unique event as it truly embodies the spirit of giving and community. “It is not just an event but a celebration of togetherness,” explains Gwen. “Every detail, from the Candy Cane Lane decorations to the music, is infused with love and effort to unify and celebrate during the holiday season.”
Gwen’s favorite part of the Christmas Stroll is the magical feeling it embodies. “There is something truly special about seeing a camel walking down the street and the joy and wonder in the faces of children and families as they share in this tradition. It reminds us of the beauty of the season and the importance of coming together to create lasting memories.”
Join this year’s Christmas Stroll on Saturday, December 13 starting at 4PM in the Village of Ellicottville. For full schedule of events visit ellicottvilleny.com/events or email gcbush@gmail.com.