Get ready, Hastings—it's the most wonderful time of the year, and the historic streets of downtown are coming alive with Holiday Hoopla! This cherished annual tradition invites locals and visitors alike to revel in the holiday spirit with family-friendly activities, festive treats, and heartwarming moments. Mark your calendar for today, Saturday, November 30, 2024, and let’s dive into everything this merry celebration has to offer!

🎅 Morning Magic: Breakfast and Santa Visits

Start your day with some festive cheer:

• Breakfast with Santa at the Lock and Dam Eatery kicks off at 8:30/9:00 AM and again at 10:30/11:00 AM. Reservations are required, so don’t miss this chance to mingle with St. Nick while enjoying a hearty breakfast.

• Capture the perfect holiday memory with Santa & Mrs. Claus photos from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM at The Studio Downtown, hosted by Jeannie Tribe Photography. Online reservations required!

🧦 Free Stockings & Creative Fun for Kids

• Swing by Impressive Windows & Interiors from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM to pick up free stockings stuffed with goodies for kids aged 12 and under. (While supplies last!)

• Kids can also channel their inner artist with a coloring contest at Spiral Brewery from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

🖌️ DIY Holiday Keepsakes

• Design a special holiday memento at Squeaky Wheel Pottery, where you can paint and glaze ceramic ornaments from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Just $10 per ornament—perfect for all ages!

🎶 Music, Crafts, and Vendors Galore

The downtown streets will hum with holiday cheer:

• Groove to festive beats with a DJ on 2nd Street from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

• Explore handmade arts, crafts, and more at the ArtSpace River Lofts and The American Legion throughout the day.

• Treat yourself to free chili (11:00 AM, while supplies last) or warm up with hot cocoa at Geek Haven from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

🍪 Sweet Treats & Whimsical Rides

• Indulge in cookie decorating at 2nd Street Depot from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

• Hop aboard a horse and wagon ride or enjoy gourmet s’mores at Oliver’s Grove from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

🌟 Special Appearances & Performances

• Meet the one and only Grinch at Hastings Tavern from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM, with photos by Ashley Jean Photography for just $5.

• Don’t miss Story Time with Mayor Mary at The Studio Downtown from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM—a charming experience for kids and families alike.

🎄 Evening Festivities: Music, Lights, and Community Joy

The grand finale of the day is pure holiday magic:

• Gather at the Pavilion for a festive sing-along with elementary school performers and the Spiral Singers at 4:45 PM.

• Watch downtown transform into a twinkling winter wonderland with the Downtown Street Lighting at 5:15 PM.

• Cap off the night with the dazzling Tree Lighting at City Hall at 5:30 PM.

📍 Make Your Holiday Hoopla Plans

For more details, visit the official event page: Holiday Hoopla & Small Business Saturday. Keep in mind that all times and activities are subject to change.

Whether you’re here for the horse rides, the music, or the cocoa, Holiday Hoopla promises something for everyone. Share your favorite moments on social media, tag your photos with #HastingsHolidayHoopla, and let’s make this event the talk of the town!

Happy holidays, Hastings—we’ll see you downtown! 🎄✨