Hometown holiday: Hartville’s Evening in the Village brings cheer downtown

The 26th annual Evening in the Village, a Hartville Christmas tradition, took place Dec. 7 from 4:30-7 p.m. Temperatures were in the mid-30s, and a few snowflakes helped set the seasonal mood, said Chip Weisel, president of the Lake Township Chamber of Commerce.

New this year was a Christmas Quest, which invited participants to explore historic downtown Hartville through a digital scavenger-style activity. Using their phones, visitors walked to designated stops to complete festive tasks such as listening to music, taking photos, visiting local shops and enjoying treats. Those who completed the quest received a Hartville ornament.

A tree and basket silent auction, organized by Kathy Butcher, raised funds for Compassion Delivered, a local nonprofit that provides nutritious meals to individuals facing life-threatening illnesses. The auction included a variety of decorated trees, baskets and specialty items donated by local businesses and organizations.

A cookie-baking contest was also held, with Mayor Cindy Billings overseeing the judging. Sixteen entries were submitted, including nine adult and seven youth entries. The youth winner was Koda Donohew, and the adult winner was Dureska. Both winning entries were frosted sugar cookies.

Butcher, owner of Hartville Mercantile, and Billings once again handled much of the event planning, as they have for several years. Billings said downtown businesses were quick to pitch in once the date was set. “Another wonderful Evening in the Village,” she said. “I’d like to thank all the businesses and organizations that participated. We couldn’t do it without them.”

Santa Claus, portrayed by Steve Merrill, arrived by fire truck and flipped the switch to light the Christmas tree. The Grinch, portrayed by Gary Marcum, also made an appearance. Both remained throughout the evening to visit with children and pose for photos.

Not everything went according to plan. A blown fuse left the Hartville Elevator dark for much of the evening, limiting its planned activities and fundraising efforts for Lake Township FISH. Wagon rides were also canceled because of road construction on Mill Street.

Music was provided throughout the evening by DJ John Hobdy of Affordable Entertainment. The Reflections Choir from Lake High School, directed by Matthew Eversdyke, performed, along with saxophonist Cole Kiser and guitarist Tally Micozzi.

Butcher thanked the historic downtown Hartville businesses, volunteers and organizations that hosted open houses, activities and food stations, helping make the annual event possible.