Holiday Stroll shifts to Saturday

The Holiday Stroll returns in 2021 on a new day of the week.

For the first time in its 16-year history, Milford’s Holiday Stroll will take place on Saturday rather than Friday. The event is planned, snow or shine, on December 4, 2021, from 4 to 9 PM.

“We decided to move to Saturday due to feedback from a new merchant group,” Lang Redden, a member of the Holiday Stroll committee, said. “They felt more people and families could attend on a Saturday. The theory is that on Friday’s, families are tired coming home from work and school, but would be more energized and motivated to come on Saturday. The timing is also earlier for those that would like to attend but have a harder time driving during the dark hours.”

Strollers enjoy the train display at Tax Chicks a few years ago

The Holiday Stroll is designed as an old-fashioned holiday celebration with beautifully decorated shops, bakeries, restaurants and art galleries downtown. Businesses offer complimentary treats, there is live holiday music and an outdoor Christmas Market along the Riverwalk. There will be wagon rides, children’s activities and a firepit with s’mores at the library amphitheater.

“This year, we are coming out with a “Golden Ticket” showcasing our event sponsors,” Redden said. “Pick up a brochure at participating locations on November 15 and drop by their store to get a stamp anytime between November 15 and December 4. Participants can then drop off their completed ticket at the DMI table during the Holiday Stroll to receive a prize.”

Holiday strollers enjoy hot chocolate and coffee at Dolce a few years ago

The Christmas Market will include items created by local artisans. Downtown merchants will be open late that evening for holiday shopping and Carlisle Fire Hall will be there with emergency vehicles. There will be Irish dancers, miniature horses and the Milford Museum will be open late for tours as well.

Masks and six-foot spacing is encouraged but not mandatory as most events will be outside.

“Visitors will be able to see him and his elves through the large windows in a special Santa display,” Redden said. “Onlookers are welcome to take photos and leave letters for Santa.”

Santa will arrive downtown on Small Business Saturday, November 27. He will be in his house every Saturday from 11 AM until 3 PM until December 18. During the Holiday Stroll, Santa will be located at the Delaware Music School where strollers can watch he and his elves behind the large glass windows. Children can leave letters for Santa and families are welcome to take photos.

For more information about the Holiday Stroll, contact DMI at 302-839-1180 or email [email protected].