MainStreet unveils 'Holly Jolly Dayton'

DAYTON — “Holly Jolly Dayton” is a fresh take on our community Christmas celebration that transforms our cherished holiday tradition into a downtown extravaganza.

“This holiday season MainStreet Dayton is excited to introduce a fresh and vibrant way to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year,” MainStreet officials said. “Instead of our traditional Christmas parade, MainStreet is thrilled to announce the launch of’ Holly Jolly Dayton,’ a festive Christmas event on Saturday, Dec. 7, in downtown Dayton.

“As our community continues to grow and evolve, so do our traditions, and this year, Holly Jolly Dayton will bring a new level of excitement and engagement to our city center as a family-friendly event that promises to create unforgettable memories for everyone.”

Spanning the downtown shopping district and centered at the historic Rhea County Courthouse, the event will feature a Holiday Market with unique gifts and seasonal treats from local vendors in storefronts and on the courthouse lawn, offering gifts for all ages including handmade crafts and delicious holiday sweets.

The magic of the season comes to life with a visit to Santa in a beautifully decorated winter wonderland, perfect for capturing timeless holiday photos with photographer Samantha Tilley. Enjoy live entertainment, interactive holiday displays, live music, our traditional Christmas Critters, carriage rides, snow (yes, snow) and a range of activities for all ages all with the backdrop of our festively lit historic Rhea County Courthouse and the giant Christmas tree!

The decision to pivot from the traditional parade format reflects our community’s desire for a relaxed yet equally festive experience. Holly Jolly Dayton allows families to explore the festivities at their own pace, enjoying a variety of attractions in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

“We’re excited to bring this new tradition to our community,” said Candice Graham, Director of MainStreet Dayton. “This downtown holiday extravaganza is more than just a replacement for the parade; it’s an opportunity to engage our residents and visitors in a way that celebrates the spirit of the Christmas season while supporting our local businesses.”

Stay tuned for more details from MainStreet with the exciting lineup of events. Mark your calendars for Saturday, Dec. 7, and join us in downtown Dayton for a day of Christmas joy, community connection and the warmth of togetherness. Visit www.mainstreetdayton.org.