Holiday Stroll Saturday kicks of Nashua’s season

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NASHUA, NH – The city is gearing up for its big annual celebration of downtown and the holiday season, the Winter Holiday Stroll.

The 29th annual Holiday Stroll, which includes the city’s tree lighting and three hours of afternoon kid-friendly events, will be from 1 to 10 p.m. Saturday on Main Street. More than 25,000 people attended last year’s Stroll, according to organizers.

New this year will be a vendors and artisans’ showcase, beginning at 4 p.m.

“Our downtown is the special place it is, because of all the people who pour their love into building a sense of community,” organizers said. “We appreciate all of our enthusiastic readers, visitors, non-profits, artists and performers, and all of the businesses large and small who share a vision for this evermore vibrant heart of our city.”

The day begins with some afternoon events for little ones who may not be able to stay up late for the evening festivities, or may be overwhelmed.

• Santa and Mrs. Claus will greet kids from 1 to 4 p.m. the Hunt Memorial Building, 6 Main St. Kids are encouraged to bring their lists, and parents and guardians may bring their own camera to capture the moment. They’ll also be available to kids after the tree-lighting.

• Also from 1 to 4 p.m., kids can enjoy the Berry-Go-Round Ride on High Street, a block from the Santa and Mrs. Claus event. There will be a warming station for those waiting to go on the ride.

• The Stroll’s first-ever Holiday Bazaar will be from 4-9 p.m. on West Pearl Street, between Main and Elm, and will showcase unique locally made products and artwork.

• Those who would like to be part of the candlelight procession down Main Street can gather at City Hall, beginning at 4 p.m., to get a candle. The procession steps off at 5 p.m., with Santa leading the way to the tree lighting.

• The tree lighting will be at about 5:45 p.m. at the Hunt Memorial Building, 6 Main St.

• After the tree is lit, there will be live music on several stages throughout downtown, as well as food venders, rides for kids, and more.

There will be no parking on Main Street and some adjacent streets. [See accompanying article for a list of road closures].

Those attending the Holiday Stroll may use the free shuttle service provided by the city of Nashua Transit System and First Student, available at the following locations:

• Holman Stadium with continuous service (ADA compliant) running 3-9:30 p.m., dropping off at the top of Clinton Street near Library Hill.
• Memorial Hall at Rivier University with continuous service running 3-10 p.m., dropping off near the Transit Center on Garden Street behind the Santander parking lot.

Official website here.

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