RDP kicks off Christmas season with annual Holiday Stroll

The annual Holiday Stroll is bringing Santa Clause to downtown Rochester today, Dec. 6, starting at 6 p.m. From free hot cocoa, live music, community carolers, food, store specials and a visit from real reindeer and Santa, the event plans on scattering holiday cheer at stations running from Ninth to Fifth streets.

The annual Holiday Stroll is kicking off Christmas in downtown Rochester today, Dec. 6, starting at 6 p.m. The event is planning to include live music, community carolers, real reindeer, and of course, Santa. The new Santa house built and designed by students from Rochester High School was moved to Centennial Park earlier this week in anticipation for the event. 

Rochester Downtown Partnership Executive Director Julie Shambarger said the RDP team planned to not only bring a festive atmosphere to Rochester, but also support the local businesses. Shambarger said the Holiday Stroll is growing and will take place between Ninth and Fifth streets. Candy, kettle corn and roasted almonds are among some of the treats that will be available, and Mellow Mug Cafe is set to be a center for entertainment this year during the event and will be handing out free hot cocoa. 

Several new traditions coming to this year's Holiday Stroll include a giant candy truck by Wilson's Tow and Transport, a s'mores truck, a cookie decorating station and more. Another unique feature Shambarger highlighted for Friday's event is a six-foot tall vase built by Rochester Glass Company that will be filled with snowballs near Eighth and Main streets. Shambarger said a guessing game will be centered around the snowball vase, with prizes that exceed well over $100. 

"Everything we're doing is just bringing back the sweet and simple memories of Christmas," Shambarger said.