The end of the year is in sight, but this office is still jamming with events and the preparations leading up to them. Our events require meetings and much preparation. How much depends on the complexity of the event, but it’s still hours of preparation. Sometimes it’s back-to-back meetings—with the event committees, with Police and Fire Departments, with Public Works, with Emergency Medical Services, and other agencies. Because the COVID situation made us push some of our events from earlier in a year to later, we’re really hustling.
With A Taste of Vineland and the Pumpkin Patch Party behind us, a lot still remains. So, let’s take a look at what’s still in store.
• Our first Crafts and Antiques Show on The Ave is coming up this Saturday, November 6, rain or shine, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It’ll be on the 600 block of Landis Avenue and, if necessary, can expand into the 700 block. We’re working with a firm that has a large database of crafters. It’ll be a juried show, with the firm and Main Street Vineland participating in the participant selection process. A number of vendors have already signed up, and we’re also inviting our merchants on The Ave to participate in the sidewalk show aspect of the event.
• Our Main Street Vineland Christmas Parade is coming up on Saturday, November 27, starting at 5 p.m., with the rain date the following day at the same time. The parade’s theme will be “An Olde Fashioned Christmas on The Ave.” The major sponsor will be Friends of Michael Testa Jr. for State Senate and Newfield National Bank will be a supporting sponsor.
The parade will feature a float contest and marching bands. Trophies will be awarded to the first, second, and third place winners in both the “Large Float” and “Petite Float” categories. It will proceed on Landis Avenue through the downtown toward Myrtle Street. COVID-related safety measures will be in place. Registration for participates and vendor applications are through the Main Street Vineland website—TheAve.biz. Sponsorships are still available.
• We’re unveiling another new event this year, just in time for your holiday shopping and planning. An Olde Fashioned Christmas on The Ave will occur on Landis Avenue. G.E. Mechanical will be the major sponsor of this event, and the festivities take place Friday, December 3 from 5 to 9 p.m.; Saturday, December 4 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday, December 5 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This extravaganza is a weekend loaded with fun activities and opportunities to enjoy festivities and do holiday shopping. Music, holiday movies, Yuletide costumes and décor, fun and fellowship are all on tap, just like olden times. Stay tuned for more information on this exciting holiday event.
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While you’re on The Ave, take in a show at the Landis Theater and stop into Kaycee Ray’s Sports Bar and Pub, right next door, at 830 E. Landis Ave., for a meal and a drink. They’re open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, with live music those evenings. Support downtown entertainment and dining. Stop in. You’ll enjoy the experience. Kaycee Ray’s phone is 856-839-0902.
