Light Up the Holidays in St. Germain

Light Up the Holidays in St. Germain

There’s something magical about the holidays in St. Germain. Far from crowded commercial centers and generic urban holiday sales, our little town in the forest offers a holiday experience that’s become far too rare. St. Germain is a place where you can chat with friendly and knowledgeable shopkeepers, discover unique holiday gifts, take in some spectacular Northwoods scenery, and participate in a lively small-town Christmas event that’s like something out of a holiday movie. Here’s why you should kick off the holidays this year in St. Germain, and some special events on Nov. 30 that you won’t want to miss.

Holiday Marketplace

On Nov. 30, from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m, St. Germain’s Community Center will be a bustling and festive place. The Holiday Marketplace is a lively annual tradition that draws a wide range artists and artisans. There’s an amazing selection of special and unique gifts, as well as beautiful holiday and home decor items – this year, decorate your home for the holidays with a touch of St. Germain! There will be 25 vendors on hand and they will be selling everything from fine jewelry and artisan quilted items to tasty baked goods and birdhouses. Enjoy something sweet as you shop – there will be cookies and cocoa to enjoy!

Jingle Bell Run

In St. Germain, there’s a fun way to burn off a few holiday cookies. The Jingle Bell Run takes place at 2:30 p.m. on Nov. 30 at the St. Germain Community Center. The run/walk is a 5k professionally timed event and it’s a festive way to jingle in the holidays. The course this year heads off of the roads into the scenic Awassa Trails – the route will be kept open for running, even if we get a little snow. There will be holiday music playing on the course and you can follow little snowman markers to stay on track. Santa hats are not required, but you might want to consider it; you’ll look great! There’s even a shorter (1K) kids race for any little elves that would like to participate – if they do, they will receive a candy bar! Tortoise & Hare Race Management will provide finishing times are the event.

Lighting up St. Germain

The heart of the holidays will be in the heart of St. Germain on Nov. 30. From 4-6 p.m. there will be a tree lighting event, held right at the St. Germain Chamber of Commerce. It’s a timeless event that welcomes all ages. There’s a magnificent tree that will dazzle the crowd with light, there will be plenty of hot cocoa and cookies on hand, and Santa will be making an appearance – kids will want to bring their wish lists and be sure to stay on Santa’s “nice” list!

Holiday Shopping

Holiday shopping is an experience to savor in St. Germain. It’s the opposite of a forgettable online purchase – you won’t have to battle any crowds and you can even get some advice from a friendly local shopkeeper. Our stores have something for everyone on your list – discover everything from the latest outdoor gear to beautiful artisan items and wonderful wine and cocktail mixes. For example, Bear Paw Pottery sells beautiful pieces that are made on site with a Northwoods touch. Lake Nokomis Cranberries sells a lot of wonderful cranberry products, including wine that you can sample in the shop. You may want to pick up a little something for yourself! You can also give the gift of St. Germain with our Chamber Chexx gift certificates. They come in $5, $10, $15, $20, and $25 denominations and can be used like money at many St. Germain businesses and restaurants. They can be purchased in the St. Germain Area Chamber of Commerce. If you can’t make it in to our office to purchase and pick up the certificates in person, just call us and we’ll be happy to ship them to you.

Cozy lodging

There’s nothing cozier than a St. Germain getaway. You’ll feel relaxed, from the moment you set out of the car and smell a hint of wood smoke in the air. A warm fireplace is waiting for you here, and you can choose lodging option that’s perfect for you. St. Germain has cozy and convenient hotels, timeless resorts, and spacious vacation homes. Escape with someone special, plan a getaway for the family, or just head up here on your own. Everyone is welcome in St. Germain and we can’t wait to see you this holiday season!