The RDC expanded their one-day holiday event to three-days this year  December 8 - 10,  2023. Many neighborhood families and friends took part in the magic and also shopped in the new indoor market with 25 unique local artists and crafters. Delicious eats were available from Mr.Burgers food truck as well as local businesses. Each day there was a full day of entertainment programming to keep the spirits bright.

Commencing the three-day event on Friday night there was a beautiful tree-lighting ceremony of five trees from Gorgas Park tree stand. The sparkling shine of LED lights from Lytstyx drew the crowd into the park adding a bit of spectacle to the gateway to the Pocket Park. Accompanying the tree lighting were the sounds of the Watershed Church holiday band. Senator Vincent Hughes joined in the celebration and kept the crowd energy going by calling up children to say, "Ho Ho Ho" into the microphone as loud as they could. The countdown to the tree lighting was a team effort by Executive Director Jax Cusack and Senator Hughes with a huge applause as the lights illuminated the park. 

On Saturday, Dec. 9th the jolly figure in red, Santa Claus, made his appearance amid the merriment, alongside live holiday brass performances and engaging crafts tailored for children. Many children were as busy as the elves, creating "wishing ornaments" to be placed on two of the designated trees in the park. Jeannette's School of Dance put on their annual holiday dance shoes and delighted the audience. 

The magic continued Sunday, Dec. 10th with two special meet-and-greet sessions! Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer traveled all the way from the North Pole for pictures with pets and families! Then a wintry blast arrived with Elsa and Anna from Frozen. Families enjoyed posing for pictures while grabbing their gifts from local artists on the last day of the market.

This free community event brought joy, community spirit, and unforgettable holiday cheer to everyone who attended.

Thank you for your sponsorship, MGMT Residential, Independence Blue Cross, Baker Street Partners, Acme, Renewal by Anderson, Power Home Remodeling, NRG, and LytStyx. A special thank you to MGMT for allowing us to use their space for the holiday market.