(Atlantic) Listed as Travel Iowa’s number one Christmas destination, downtown Atlantic shines bright each year with nearly 200,000 lights spanning six blocks. It’s a scene straight out of a Hallmark movie, with twinkling streets, warm shop windows, and a community overflowing with holiday cheer.
Kelsey Beschorner, Executive Director of the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce said the celebration begins Saturday, November 8th with the Holiday Open House. Local retailers will open their doors for a festive preview of the season featuring treats, giveaways, and special promotions.
For the nineth year, the Chamber will offer AtlantiCash at a discounted rate as part of the Holiday Promotion.
For one day only, on Saturday, November 8th, discounted AtlantiCash will be available from 9 AM to 12 PM (or while supplies last) at the Chamber. Packs of $100 in AtlantiCash will be sold for $80, with a limit of three packs per person.
The Annual Grand Lighting Ceremony takes place Thursday, November 20th at 5 PM at the Historic Rock Island Depot. Santa will make a special arrival at 5:30 PM to help light up downtown and visit with children in his cabin from 6 to 7:30 PM at City Park.
The Lighted Parade and Fireworks, one of Atlantic’s most cherished traditions, will be held Saturday, December 6th, starting at 6 PM. Parade entries can be submitted by filling out the form and emailing it to chamber@atlanticiowa.com. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required.
Before the parade, families can visit Santa’s Cabin for hot chocolate, treats, and horse-drawn carriage rides from 3 to 5:30 PM. Visit www.atlanticiowa.com for Santa’s full schedule.
The Angel of Christmas Award is another cherished tradition that recognizes a community member, or organization, who embodies the true spirit of giving during the holiday season. This heartwarming honor celebrates those who go above and beyond to spread kindness, joy, and generosity throughout the Atlantic area. Nominations are due to the Chamber by November 29th. Updates and event details can be found at www.atlanticiowa.com or on the Chamber’s Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat pages.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to share the holiday spirit using #MyAtlanticIA on Facebook and Instagram (@AtlanticIowaFan). For additional information, contact the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce at chamber@atlanticiowa.com or 712-243-3017.
