By Kate Bartlett
The Ellicottville Christmas Stroll has been a favorite tradition for 37 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 December 14th. As always, it is free and open to the public.
Gwen Bush, director 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.
The Christmas Stroll celebrates the holiday season with a living nativity, complete with a camel, candy, elves, caroling, and display of nativity sets and angels. The Reindog Parade will commence on Washington Street at 4:15pm with the live nativity at 6pm at the Gazebo. The event includes cookies at The Banq at 4pm with wagon rides in front of the gazebo from 4:15-5:30pm. The Ellicottville High School Band will play Christmas Carols at the Gazebo, and the Living Nativity will be accompanied by the Ellicottville High School Jazz Choir.
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.”
Volunteers help decorate the town, organize the Reindog Parade, and dress as elves to hand out toys, cookies, cocoa, and candy. Students from the Ellicottville Band and Choir contribute with carols, while others play the roles of angels and shepherds, walking ahead of Mary and Joseph. Fathers volunteer to be the Wisemen. “It truly brings the spirit of Ellicottville together in a beautiful, festive way,” says Gwen.
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 14 starting at 4pm in the Village of Ellicottville. For full schedule of events, see page 7 of this edition of The Villager, visit ellicottvilleny.com/events or email gcbush@gmail.com.