By Hannah Kubbins and Rachel Epstein

Asst. Arts & Life Editor, Arts & Life Editor

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the Christmas Candlelight Walking Tour in Granville welcomed all to enjoy over 70 performance and activities. Sponsored by the Granville Area Chamber of Commerce, the Candlelight Walk is held every first Saturday of December from 1-9 p.m.

Originally, the event was formed by the four churches in town at the corners of Broadway and Main St. They all came together for a day of festive fun as “Granville’s Gift to Families.” The event has since grown dramatically, and now the Granville Area Chamber of Commerce is the event’s official organizer.

According to the press release, Granville’s Christmas Walking Tour lights up the town, capturing the essence of an old-fashioned Christmas.

According to Michelle Newman Brady, “the Walking Tour is a day to welcome residents and guests alike to the village of Granville and kick off the holiday season,” she said. “This year we had over 70 different activities take place at area businesses and churches.  Events ranged from free cookies and cider to a meet and greet with [Frozen character], Olaf, musical performances in the churches, strolling carolers, a Gingerbread House contest, and of course Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Robbins Hunter Museum.

While the Chamber of Commerce plans the events and programs, much of the experience is covered through donations and sponsorships, as well as by the individuals who take part in the tour.

Newman Brady also mentioned that, “While getting a full estimate of attendees is nearly impossible, we think there may have been record attendance this year!”

Denison acapella organizations Tehillah and DuWop added to the celebration by performing outside Granville’s post office, as well as the Hilltoppers showcasing their talent later in the evening. Ladies Night Out spent their time at the walk caroling. Member Janyce Caraballo ‘17 said “It’s a great tradition that we’ve been a part of for a long time and at the end of it we always sing a couple songs with the high school girls from the First Presbyterian Church. This was our 11th year doing it and it was great! Granville really seems like a magical time during the walk, with lots of smiling faces and holiday spirit.”

Photo Courtesy of Golzar Meamar