Home for the Holidays traditional celebrations and events modified for 2020
Warwick. Due to the pandemic restrictions, this year’s celebration will be festive but not include the weekend horse and buggy rides.
| 27 Oct 2020 | 12:34
This is a file photo by Roger Gavan of Sean Giery and his team of Percherons, Jack and Bob, and mascot “Butch” providing horse and buggy rides during last year’s Home of the Holiday celebration. Due to the pandemic restrictions, this year’s celebration will be festive but not include the weekend horse and buggy rides.
It’s almost that time of year and especially because of the hardships resulting from the pandemic restrictions, everyone is urged to come on down and support our local businesses during the annual celebration of Home for the Holidays.
The popular event, co-chaired by Mary Beth Schlichting and Merchant Guild President Corrine Iurato, traditionally begins before Thanksgiving and ends after Christmas.
A different look
It is an annual celebration designed to present downtown Warwick as a fun and convenient place to do all your holiday shopping.
But Home for the Holidays will have a different look this year.
“Due to the continued presence of the Covid-19 pandemic and the unpredictable emergence of various hot-spots,” said Schlichting, “we feel it is in the best interest of everyone to reduce the scope of our events his season. We deeply regret having to make this decision, but these are the difficult choices necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of our customers and our businesses alike.”
Due to the pandemic, this year’s celebration will not include members of the Warwick Valley Chorale strolling the streets singing traditional Christmas carols on opening day or the weekend free horse and buggy rides traveling through the village.
Having a good time shopping local
But the Warwick merchants still want everyone to know that they will decorate their shops and offer convenience, quality merchandise, special sales, friendly personalized service including gift-wrapping and, in most cases, a “wish” list to make things easier for gift givers.
“Our dynamic collection of shops and restaurants are committed to being open to continue to serve you and your families.” said Schlichting. “We will continue to encourage our local businesses to practice the highest standards of cleanliness and distancing as required. By shopping and dining locally, you can avoid the congestion of larger shopping venues, while enjoying the beautiful atmosphere of our village and town. At the same time, you can also help to support the same businesses that provide ongoing support for our community throughout the year. The holidays truly are a time for coming home and for coming together. We encourage you to do so in the warmth and safety of our beautiful hometown.”
Check for promotions
Visitors are advised to check with the local shops and restaurants for upcoming promotions, events, extended Holiday hours and unique holiday happenings.
“We so appreciate your support and understanding during these challenging times,” added Schlichting. “We wish you all of you a safe and happy holiday season. God bless us everyone.”
- Roger Gavan