Hartville’s 26th Evening in the Village brings holiday magic Dec. 7

A beloved tradition returns as Hartville hosts its 26th Annual Evening in the Village on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, from 4:30 to 7 p.m. in Historic Downtown Hartville. The event kicks off the holiday season with festive cheer, featuring wagon rides, children’s activities, live music, open houses at local shops, visits with Santa and a magical tree-lighting ceremony.

Community members will gather in the square around 5 p.m. to await Santa Claus’ arrival on a fire truck and the lighting of the Christmas tree, generously provided by Horning Sarchione Innerst – Private Wealth Management Group. After the tree is lit, Santa will be available for visits and photos. Throughout the evening, local musicians will perform holiday music, while carolers spread cheer on wagon rides through the village. Families can also enjoy storytelling, crafts and photo opportunities at various downtown locations.

The annual cookie contest will return, with both kids and adults invited to participate. Prizes will be awarded in children’s and adult categories. To enter, participants should bring one dozen of their best holiday cookies on a disposable plate to Village Hall between 4:30 and 5:15 p.m. on the day of the event.

Downtown shops will stay open late for holiday shopping and refreshments, offering treats such as hot cocoa, cider and cookies. In addition, local eateries and snack spots will serve food throughout the event.

For the Season of Giving, attendees can bid on festive baskets and decorated trees in a silent auction, with proceeds benefiting Compassion Delivered, a local nonprofit providing nutritious meals to those facing life-threatening illnesses.

For more information, call 330-877-9650 or visit www.discoverhartville.com/downtown.