By Ed Karvoski Jr., Contributing Writer
Hudson – Mild temperatures Dec. 2 attracted numerous residents and visitors to the 15th annual Hudson Downtown Holiday Stroll. With the continuing downtown revitalization, several recently-opened businesses joined established mainstays for the seasonal celebration. About 30 businesses and nonprofit organizations participated.
Merchants offered open houses and activities such as cookie and ornament decorating, seasonal crafts, and a live petting zoo with pony rides. Among the giveaways were fruit smoothies at Main Street Bagel Factory, and hot chocolate and cider at New City Microcreamery. Live entertainment at the Town Hall featured the Hudson High School a cappella group Camerata, River’s Edge Chorale and The Carolers, and Metrowest Ballet performing “A Nutcracker Tea.”
The always popular horse-drawn hayrides departing from Robinsons Hardware were enhanced this year with two additional wagons for a total of four. Before boarding hayrides, guests roasted marshmallows courtesy of the Hudson Rotary Club.
New this year, the nonprofit River’s Edge Arts Alliance (REAA) organized a 5” x 7” Clothesline Art Walk. Frameable artwork of mixed media and photographs were displayed at B. Barton & Company, CAS Handmade and The Haberdash with proceeds of sales benefitting REAA.
Families strolled to the Hudson Senior Center where children met Santa Claus by the fireplace. Santa also led a tree lighting ceremony on the grounds of the Town Hall.
Presented by the Hudson Business Association, the event’s major sponsors were Hudson Appliance and TD Bank with support from local businesses. Serendipity owner Lori Burton served as event chair.
(Photos/Ed Karvoski Jr.)