Fredericktown Christmas Walk fills village with music, lights and community spirit

The Village of Fredericktown welcomed the holiday season in traditional fashion last Saturday with its annual Christmas Walk, a community celebration that filled the town square with music, lights, crafts, and family-friendly activities. The event, held each year on the first Saturday in December, benefits Fredericktown Interchurch, Fredericktown Salvation Army, and The Community Fund.

The festivities officially began at dusk as families gathered beneath the gazebo for the Christmas Walk tree lighting, the symbolic start of the village’s holiday season. As the tree illuminated the center of town with bright, colorful lights, the Fredericktown High School Choir performed a festive rendition of “My Favorite Things,” drawing warm applause from the bundled-up crowd. Despite the chilly weather, attendance was strong, with families strolling through the village, exploring shops, and enjoying the wide variety of activities. The event received praise for being well organized and easy to navigate, with coordinated schedules, clear signage, and something to enjoy at every turn. Marcy Rinehart, Station Manager at WNZR Radio, shared her enthusiasm for the event, noting that "this is a fun event for families," a sentiment echoed by many who attended.

Music remained a central part of the evening’s atmosphere, filling the square with familiar seasonal melodies. Performances continued under the gazebo throughout the event, featuring the Cornerstone Community Church Choir, the Fredericktown Christian Pre-School, and concluding with the Cornerstone Community Church Brass Trio, whose traditional brass arrangements brought the evening’s musical program to a close.

Across the square near the outdoor fireplace, Santa Claus greeted children throughout the night, listening to Christmas wishes and posing for pictures. The warm glow of the fire made the spot a popular gathering area as families waited to meet St. Nick.

Several additional activities were spread throughout town. The Scrumptious Food Auction inside Council Chambers drew guests eager to bid on homemade holiday treats. At the First Presbyterian Church, guests explored a craft show, picked out handmade ornaments, and enjoyed a card-making activity designed for all ages.

Local businesses also joined in the festivities. Wilson Family Realty hosted live entertainment featuring the Granny Creek Band, Chris Cline, and Tom & Dan Bolton, giving visitors another opportunity to enjoy music and warm up indoors. Meanwhile, The Shoppe on Main hosted a festive gingerbread house contest, and the Splash Pad featured a lively Christmas tree decorating contest that inspired creativity among residents and visitors. Guests also had the opportunity to vote for their favorite decorated trees, including special entries from Luna Redmond and Raeghan Johnson.

Despite the chilly weather, attendance remained strong as families casually walked through downtown, visited shops, and enjoyed the warm, festive atmosphere. 

Organizers and volunteers ensured the evening ran smoothly, with clear signage, a coordinated schedule, and activities spaced conveniently throughout the village. Visitors remarked on how nicely organized the event felt, with something available for every age and interest.

As the night came to a close and the lights of the gazebo continued to shine over the square, the final sounds of the Cornerstone Community Church Brass Trio wrapped up the evening’s musical program. Residents and guests headed home with treats, crafts, memories, and a renewed sense of holiday spirit. Once again, the Fredericktown Christmas Walk and Auction showcased the best of small-town tradition; community support, festive music, local talent, and the joy of coming together for a good cause.