Children shared their Christmas wish lists with Santa Claus while having
their photos taken to commemorate the event. 
The Lion's Roar / McKenzie DeSandro
 

The Christmas spirit officially reached the Hammond Historical District with Starry November Night.

On Friday, Nov. 14, Downtown Hammond lit up with Christmas lights, snow hit the ground and local retailers were given the opportunity to promote their business for the upcoming holidays. This has been a Hammond tradition, hosted by the Hammond Downtown Development District, for the last 10 years. 

“This is my first experience with it, but I’m loving the whole atmosphere,” said Jaime Gelpi, a freshman communication major. “People can come together on this one night, have fun with each other and get ready for the holidays.”

Businesses downtown that wanted to participate in the event put stars by the door. This indicates that they will be hosting special activities, including wine, art, music and the opportunity to visit with Santa Claus. 

Some places had seasonal refreshments, such as hot chocolate, to help keep people warm for the evening, and carriage rides through downtown were made available on Cate Street to give an old-time feel.

Anyone 21 years old and over could participate in the wine tasting that made its way into retail stores and businesses by buying a bracelet and light up wine glass for $20.

“The Downtown Development District has several events throughout the year, and it draws a huge crowd downtown,” said Ann Maddry, who helps operate Imagine Boutique. “Everybody wants to come out and have a good time.”

Artificial snow was brought in to simulate a more traditional holiday atmosphere. Children and adults crowded the small patch of what became a cluster of frosted ice chunks due to the hovering moisture in the air. 

“I think it’s a really wonderful event because it’s a time for people to come out in the community and bring their kids,” said Sandra Cashe. “I think it really instills that sense of community that we don’t have the opportunity to do in such a big way every day of the year. I love it. I love seeing people out with their kids, walking around.”

For more information on events hosted by the Hammond DDD, visit their Facebook page.