Downtown Chambersburg will still begin to look a lot like Christmas this November, but for this year, the look will be a bit different. Everything from restrictions on state road closure permits, to ever-changing safety protocols, and even limited availability of marching bands have made holding the traditional Christmas parade an impossibility. The Downtown Business Council of Chambersburg is ready to prove that even 2020 is no match for the magic of Christmas. While the 51st Annual Downtown Chambersburg Christmas Parade will have to wait until next year, new and favorite traditions come together on Main Street as Christmas Magic, presented by F&M Trust begins on Friday, November 20.
Perhaps nowhere is the blending of favorite tradition and new excitement more prominent than the first lighting of the Christmas tree on the Square. While Santa has confirmed that he will indeed illuminate the tree and thousands of lights up and down Main Street for the first time by November 20; no one knows exactly when he’ll arrive to get the magic started. Knowing old St. Nick’s preference for overnight activity, specially placed cameras are being installed to capture him in action. Regardless of when Santa’s train makes its way to the Square, the magic of the first lighting of the downtown lights will be caught and made available online for all to see.
Speaking of Santa; parents and children wondering how to share Christmas lists with the jolly old elf, while remaining socially distanced, need not worry. Giving a coronavirus-safe throwback nod to the Santa House, a Christmastime fixture on the Square for many years, Chambersburg’s Official Letters to Santa Mailbox will be making its downtown debut. Children of all ages are welcome to stop by F&M Trust on the Square to drop their letters for special delivery direct to the North Pole.
Dropping off that special letter, grabbing a bite to eat, or finding that perfect gift on Small Business Saturday all provide the perfect opportunity to take in Downtown Chambersburg’s first-ever Parade of Windows. Downtown businesses are being encouraged to go all out in decorating their storefronts and display windows in a no holds barred exhibition of holiday festivity starting November 20. Who will have the most over-the-top creation? Your guess is as good as any. But one thing is certain; magical Christmas memories, the kind that can only be made on Main Street, will be ready for you to make.