Chelsea, Michigan, enjoys much sophistication due to the cosmopolitinism of nearby Ann Arbor, yet the city maintains the intimacy of a small town. Chelsea's Home Town Holidays is a prime example of its small town atmosphere with a bit of sophistication.
This year was the 21st annual celebration. Most of the local merchants work with the city's non-profits to produce events and decorations throughout town. For example, The Garden Mill donated hundreds of votive candles which the Girl Scouts and Cub Scouts placed in recycled, plastic milk bottles to make luminaries. They lined both sides of Main Street for about a mile.
Through the three days of the festival, there was story telling, Gingerbread houses on display at various stores, a live nativity scene with a real camel, a presentation of "The Nutcracker" by the Youth Dance Theater, cookie decorating, many musical entertainments, art and craft activities for kids and adults, holiday art show, visits with Santa, and many more events.
My favorite event is the Parade of Lights. Local residents, businesses, and churches drive old cars or pull wagons down main street, each vehicle festooned in Christmas lights. The schools band plays carols; and local residents dressed in Christmas costumes march by throwing candy.
Afterwards, everyone heads to the Chelsea Teddy Bear Factory for the "After-Parade Party and Community Sing" or explores the many quaint shops and art galleries that stay open late (and provide refreshments). I look forward to the 22nd annual Home Town Holidays. I plan on driving my pony and his cart in the Parade of Lights! 
Comments(2)