Downtown Gaylord
Light the Night Christmas Celebration
Saturday, December 13 | 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
A Magical Day in the Alpine Village
Downtown Gaylord welcomes the season with a celebration inspired by the charm of our Sister City, Pontresina, Switzerland. Enjoy artisan markets, warm seasonal drinks, a glowing bonfire, the Santa Parade, lighting of the Christmas Tree, and the cozy togetherness that defines our community.
Christmas Market
Hosted by Gaylord Area Council for the Arts 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Snowbelt Brewing Co. Seasonal Sips
Special holiday beer & mulled wine – Pavilion on Court…Don’t forget to pick up your Christmas mug from the art booth!
Bonfire + DIY Smores
Pickup your S’mores kit from the Girl Scouts booth, and gather around the fire for a classic winter treat.
Christmas Tree Lighting - immediately following the Parade
Santa Parade - 5:00 PM
Photo with Santa | 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Scouts of America Tree Sale
Find the perfect tree and support local youth
Discover festive deals, treats & activities throughout Downtown
As you wander through Downtown Gaylord during Light the Night, we encourage you to explore the heart of our Alpine Village and enjoy the magic happening inside our local shops, restaurants, and cafes. Many downtown businesses are joining the celebration with exclusive discounts, holiday treats, family friendly activities, and festive experiences. A full listing is available below. Please check back frequently as more details become available.
Festive Food, Warm Drinks & Holiday Shopping
220 S Otsego Ave.
What's in their Santa Satchel
Capture your Christmas memory with this one-of-kind photo opportunity.
149 West Main Street
What's in their Santa Satchel
- The Alpine Bells, a Christmas story reading by author Joe Guthrie, and Santa and cocoa from noon-2:30.
- Holiday sales for our customers.
148 W Main Street
What's in their Santa Satchel
Make your own ornament bulb and take a fun photo with our holiday backdrop
149 West Main Street
What's in their Santa Satchel
- Stop in an warm up with a cup of 45th Parallel’s signature Patagonia Hot Chocolate.
Great Rooms Furniture and Mattresses
317 West Main Street
What's in their Santa Satchel
- Drawing for a Bedgear pillow, valued up to $300.
- Select La-Z-Boy furniture specials,
- Paying the sales tax on your Great Rooms purchase.
- Brownies and hot cocoa to keep you warm!
Hours of operation: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Otsego County Historical Museum
320 West Main
What's in their Santa Satchel
- Stop by and receive 20% off books
- Enjoy free Christmas Cookies
110 W Main St
What's in their Santa Satchel
- Bring your creativity and decorate your very own Christmas cookie.
132 W. Main St.
What's in their Santa Satchel
- $6 Grinch Slushie
- $1 off Santa’s Secret Weapon- Nicely Spiced and Naughty Beer
- Festive Music at Snowbelt starting at 7pm.
102 W Main St
What's in their Santa Satchel
- From 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM stop in and build your very own mini cake – Cost $4.00
240 W Main Street
What's in their Santa Satchel
- Special dessert wine tasting menu in addition to our regular menu
Woolybuggers
246 West Main Street
What's in their Santa Satchel
- For every $50.00 spent you receive a 5 dollar gift certificate
Call for Participating Businesses
If your business is offering a special promotion, activity, treat, or extended hours during Light the Night, we want include you in our official event listing. Please submit your information by using the form provided by clicking the button below.
VOLUNTEER WITH US!
Help Make “Light the Night” Shine Bright
Parade Support
Christmas Market Assistant
Santa Assistant
Setup and Tear Down Assistance
Join us as we Light the Night in Downtown Gaylord, where Alpine Charm, community spirit, and holiday magic come together
JOIN THE PARADE!
Be Part of a Beloved Downtown Tradition
The Santa Parade at 5:00 PM is one of Gaylord’s favorite holiday events, and you’re invited to participate! We welcome:
- Community groups
- Businesses
- Non-Profits
- School & youth organizations
- Musicians, performers & walkers
- Holiday Light up the Night themed floats
Whether you’re bringing a full float or walking with a group, your presence adds to the magic of the night!
Thank you to Our Sponsors
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our sponsors. Thanks to their support, our community can enjoy cozy fires, a festive gathering and an unforgettable Christmas Celebration. We appreciate your commitment to our commmunity!