Serving up good will is what 'Harbor Holidays' is all about. This isn't entirely a history blog today, No, it is more of a celebration about what's good about the Village of Fairport residents. It is a 'Rockwellian' slice of Americana that merits retelling.
In 1994 a tradition began in Fairport. Named Harbor Holidays it features shopping, eating, visiting, and reveling in the holiday spirit of the season. Area churches, businesses, and organizations open their doors from 10a.m.-4p.m. the first Saturday of each December and offer visitors an experience often lost in the hustle and bustle of recent decades. Ethnic foods, crafts, and Christmas Market experiences unite generations of families. A village map is provided at any venue and the map denotes all the participating sites.
In 2000 the icon of the Winter Holidays, the Grinch first appeared at this village event. He has returned to the village every year since. The Grinch arrives in town on December 3 at 10a.m. Fresh from his Canadian capers - he will be loose on the town. Known to enter various places of business, he steals presents. Stolen gifts will be donated to Toys for Tots. His trial and book signing will be at the Fairport Harbor Public Library from noon-1:30p.m. A public hearing will occur at 6p.m. from the top of the tower at the Fairport Lighthouse. After the Grinch's classic transformation, the public is invited to the village park. The Grinch, his dog Max, and Santa will be available for free photos in the village gazebo. Then the Young Adult Group of the Congregational Church on the Square will provide free hot chocolate and snacks in their hall for the children and their families.
I began this blog by stating that this piece is a celebration about what is good about people. Dr. Suess's classic tale asks two questions. "What if Christmas doesn't come from a store?" " What if Christmas, perhaps means a little bit more?" December 3 is the embodiment of this message. The entire day is a little bit more. It is free and family friendly. The Grinch, Max, and Cindy Lou Who are volunteers. The Grinch Gang, those who provide the behind the scenes efforts are volunteers. The Village Police Department, Administration, and Service Department all willingly participate in the day's event. The Library Staff donates countless hours to the day's programming.
So remember - Get 'Grinched' again this Saturday, December 3 at 6p.m. at the Fairport Lighthouse. Dress warm and bring chairs. Also remember that this free family friendly generational event is made possible by the generosity of ... The Young Adult Group of the Congregational Church on the Square, The Fairport Harbor Mardi Gras, The Fairport Harbor Historical Society, The Fairport Harbor Public Library, QSI, Concord Transportation, Castellano's Pizza of Fairport, Kathy Dusa, Deliver Me Food, Spear-Mulqueeny Funeral Home and the 'good will' of many other village residents, past and present.
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