Vintage Village Christmas coming to Monroeville

MONROEVILLE — Monroeville is set to come alive on Saturday as local businesses, organizations and volunteers come together to host the annual Vintage Village Christmas. Organizers describe the event as a "family-friendly celebration filled with small-town charm, festive activities and Christmas magic for all ages." Considered a "beloved community event," festivities kick off at 9:30 a.m. when Santa Claus arrives via fire truck on the corner of Main and Monroe streets. "Families are invited to gather, enjoy the excitement and experience the sweetness of a tradition that feels like it was pulled straight from a Christmas storybook," according to an event statement. Among some other events planned, as explained by the statement: • "A highlight of the day is the beautifully decorated Santa House where children and families can visit Santa and Mrs. Claus for free photos. The Santa House, lovingly assembled and decorated by community volunteers, creates the perfect backdrop for treasured holiday memories." • "Visitors can also enjoy a free train ride looping around the village office, thanks to generous community donors who made this festive attraction possible." • "Carolers, children's crafts and holiday surprises will be found throughout the village, adding to the magic of the day." • This year, 11 participating businesses, each with its own Christmas theme, will offer activities, experiences and festive touches from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This walkable event invites families to park once and make a complete loop through the village with each stop pointing to the next." The participating businesses and their themes include: — Snippers: White Christmas — LynMarie's Coffee: Home for Christmas — Mini Main Street: Merry "Little" Christmas — Fusion Impact Center: Home Alone — Graceful Pages Bookstore: Tidings and Truckloads of Joy — Simply Monroe: Christmas Traditions — Old Soul Woodworking: Little Drummer Boy — Monroeville Library: Miracle at 34th Monroe Street — Monroeville Model Railroad: Midnight Train Trip — Beauty Vault: Silver Bells — Village of Monroeville: WHOville "Families can pick up a Village Christmas postcard outlining all event details and locations. At each stop, they can get their postcards punched. Completed postcards may be submitted for a chance to win the Village Raffle Basket, filled with gifts and contributions from local businesses. The postcard challenge adds an element of adventure and encourages families to explore every corner of the celebration." In addition to the village experience, several community partners are hosting special events on the same day: • The American Legion will host its Wreaths Across America ceremony at noon in Commons Park. • Firelands Rails to Trails, located at 69 S. Ridge St., will open its historic train depot from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., "beautifully decorated for Christmas and offering delicious treats for visitors." "We all have something unique to offer, and events like this truly showcase the heart of our wonderful Village," said Elisa Brown, co-owner of Old Soul. "It's a joy to see neighbors, families and businesses come together to create something magical." The event is free to attend, "and all are welcome to share in the fun, warmth and Christmas spirit of the village," the statement read. People can contact the village office, monroevilleohio.com, or visit the participating local businesses for more information.