Shopping, Celebrating, And Entertaining
Uptown Westerville Continues Traditions And Adds More
Westerville, Ohio, is busy with holiday festivities for residents and visitors alike. Here's a roundup of upcoming events to mark on your calendar:
Letters to Santa
Starting just after Thanksgiving and continuing through Christmas, families can visit Rotary Mini Park in Uptown Westerville to send letters to Santa. The park offers a well-lit spot perfect for photos and a special mailbox to ensure letters reach the North Pole in time.
Uptown Westerville Small Business Saturday
On November 30, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., support local merchants during Small Business Saturday. Explore unique shops and enjoy seasonal DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) drinks as you stroll Uptown.
Uptown Scrooge
Experience a unique rendition of "A Christmas Carol" with Uptown Scrooge. This seated performance, which takes place at Java Central Coffee Roasters on select dates in December, offers an interactive holiday experience for all ages.
Hanby House Holiday Open House
Celebrate the holidays at the historic Hanby House, decorated with an old-fashioned tree and candlelight. On December 3, 5, and 7, enjoy refreshments and live music during tours led by costumed guides.
It’s a Wonderful Westerville Scavenger Hunt
On December 7, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., participate in a festive scavenger hunt across Uptown's historic district. Pick up maps at local businesses and visit Santa and Mrs. Claus at Howard Hanna Real Estate Services.
Tree Lighting and Parade
Join the community on December 6 for the annual Tree Lighting and Parade. The Parade of Lights begins at 6:30 p.m., traveling south on State Street to Walnut Street, culminating with the tree lighting ceremony at 7:00 p.m. Uptown merchants will stay open late for holiday shopping, and festivities include cookies and hot chocolate.
Birdie Book’s Birthday
Birdie Books in Uptown Westerville is celebrating its third anniversary with a "Birthday Bash" this weekend. The independent bookstore at 74 N. State St. has become a cherished local hub since opening. The store operates in the rear of a historic building undergoing renovations to restore its early 20th-century design. The celebration highlights Birdie Books' role in the community and its commitment to fostering a love for literature.
Gary Puckett Quartet at Java Central
Westerville musician Gary Puckett, known for his expertise in American Roots music and his work as a banjo player, composer, and music teacher, will perform with the Gary Puckett Quartet this Saturday at Java Central in Uptown Westerville. The group will present Americana originals and standards featuring banjo, accordion, guitars, and vocals.
Puckett, a prolific composer and skilled three-finger and clawhammer-style picker will be joined by accomplished musicians Pat Casey, Renilda Marshall, and Brian Szuch. The performance will be held on Saturday from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at Java Central, a coffee house and roaster known for hosting live music events.
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