Hometown Holiday Returns to Downtown Goshen on Dec. 5

Holiday festival for December First Fridays. On Dec. 5, from 5 to 9 p.m., residents from throughout Elkhart County and beyond come together to celebrate the holiday season, Maple City-style.

Family, friends, and neighbors join hands to sing carols with each other along Main Street in Downtown Goshen, and the Hometown Holiday community tree lighting ceremony, including a special performance from Phoenix Performing Arts, takes place at 6:30 p.m. on the corner of Main and West Washington.

Kids’ activities include free pictures with Santa from 5-8 p.m. at Fables Books, and participating local retailers highlight gifts under $30 and provide make-a-gift stations to help young gift-givers discover and enjoy the uniqueness and importance of personalized gifts.

Before and after the tree lighting, the annual Holiday Market at the Goshen Theater—at 216 South Main Street—presents the work of local holiday artisans for viewing and for sale, and offers plenty of opportunities for First Fridays revelers and carolers to warm up from the weather. 

“This time of year continues to bring the excitement of First Fridays to Downtown Goshen,” said Amanda Rose, Director of First Fridays. “In fact, things only pick up during the holiday season. Our November Light Parade was so well-attended, and we expect many families and community members to join us at Hometown Holiday. Our attendance throughout the year, and particularly during the cold season, speaks to the community spirit and sense of place that exists in Goshen. We hope that everyone will come out to Hometown Holiday and experience the magic that this time of year brings!”