ORLEANS – Despite seasonably damp and cold temperatures, a very large crowd celebrated the holiday season during the Orleans Chamber of Commerce’s 12th Annual “Christmas on the Square” held downtown Saturday night.
Chamber Executive Director Robert Henderson expressed his thanks to all those who came out Saturday night for this year’s festivities. “We are glad to still be able to host a small-town holiday event that area families can still enjoy together and hope to create some special Christmas memories.”
A large number of children greeted Santa Claus at the bandstand to greet Santa Claus who made his annual visit to Indiana’s Dogwood Capital via the town’s antique 1926 fire truck complete with a police escort. The return of children’s “Funtime Express” train ride was quite popular.
The traditional telling of the Christmas Story was shared by the members of the Orleans United Church on the west side of the square with a Nativity and costumed characters & live animals for families to be able to interact with.
“The Santa Hat Run/Walk,” included a number of “brave” participants who donned their very best Santa Hat and made their way along the sidewalks through town.
Several families enjoyed an old-fashioned horse & carriage ride around the decorated historic town square. A number of area children stopped in at the Chamber’s Visitor Center to pick up and write their “Postcards for Santa.” Afterward, the youngsters could mail their Christmas wishes to the “Jolly Old Elf” in Santa’s Mailbox located in front of the Chamber office.
Live entertainment was provided by both the Orleans High School Choir and band, under the direction of Claire Goller and Terry Burton.
Several area church groups also provided Christmas music throughout the downtown area as well.
Orleans Tri Kappa served up lots of warm drinks, food items, and other holiday goodies to visitors.
Several of the businesses and eateries around the square were open during the event including a very special blast from the past a chance to visit the once popular local longtime landmark Herle’s Café.
