Downtown Buchanan retailers, the Buchanan Area Chamber of Commerce, and community leaders alike all hope you're travels take you to historic downtown Buchanan tomorrow, Saturday, November 26th, as they launch their event White Saturday, designed to kick off the holiday shopping season there.
Merchants hope you'll start your holiday season with "a cup of small town cheer," by enjoying shopping, dining, antiques, and family friendly events throughout the day in support of the small business community there. Then, they invite you to stick around for the traditional holiday lighting and parade kicking off at 6pm, followed by free photos with Santa and a cookie reception "after-party," where refreshments will be hosted at the Community Center next to the Town Common.
Here's what's on the Buchanan agenda for Saturday:
- 10am – 6pm – Shopping! — Visit the historic downtown for shopping and dining. Mill Alley will also host vendors such as Fernwood and their wreath building.
- 10:30am – 3:30pm – Make & Take a Holiday Ornament — Stop in and create a holiday ornament at the Buchanan Art Center. Enjoy the local art in the galleries and gift shop, hot cocoa, and fresh popcorn. All ages are encouraged to be a part of the art . . . all for free.
- 11am – 12:30pm – Santa (First sighting!) — Buchanan District Library will host Santa and Mrs. Claus along with pictures, crafts, and cookie decorating. All are welcome.
- 2pm – 4pm – Caroling — The Lighthouse Chorus will be singing Christmas carols throughout downtown.
- 3pm – 5pm – BHS Face Painting — A snowman on your cheek will look perfect for the "Start the Season" parade. All proceeds will go to the BHS Art Club ~ Hosted by D MottL Realty @ 258 E. Front St. in Buchanan.
- 4pm – 5:30pm – Story & Letters to Santa — Head back to the Library as County Heritage Credit Union sponsors children story time and write a letter to Santa.
- 1pm – 4pm – Bake Sale — The students of the Culinary Arts program at Buchanan High School will host a bake sale. All proceeds will support the program.
- 6pm – PARADE TIME — Line up along Front Street Downtown to see the holiday parade, which begins at Redbud/Front Street and ends at Front/Oak Street Common entrance.
- 6:30pm – 8:30pm – Holiday Lighting Ceremony — Head for the Common following the parade for Santa's arrival and the annual "throwing of the switch" as they light the Common. Christmas music, caroling, pictures with Santa sponsored by AEP.
The "After Party" — Following the ceremony join the celebration in the Community center for cookies and hot chocolate provided by the Buchanan Area Senior Center, Buchanan-Galien Lions Club, Berrien County Civitan, Pure Rituals, B&W Olde Village Inn, Leo Club and Country Heritage Credit Union.
Additional businesses in Buchanan on White Saturday that will be offering holiday splendor and specials include:
- Abandonedrelik
- Alan Robandt Antique, Vintage, & Modern
- B&W Olde Village Inn
- Dean Antiques
- Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve (in SL Consignment Gallery & Mill Alley)
- Front St. Antiques
- Havens Retreat Day Spa
- Julies Wear n' Share
- Pure Rituals
- Redbud Hardware
- SL Consignment Gallery
- Skye is the Limit Art Gallery
- Union Coffee House & Cafe
