Santa and Mrs. Santa Claus came to shipshewana to celebrate the kick-off of the Holiday Season. (Standard-News Photo by Desirée Beauchamp)
Last weekend, downtown Shipshewna was alive with excitement as the Lighting of Shipshewana took place. Stores opened their welcoming eager shoppers throughout the town. Food vendors dotted the streets, with over 30 local restaurants and food trucks ready to satisfy every craving.
At the Davis Mercantile, visitors enjoyed treats from Aunt Millies, Jo Jo’s Pretzels, and Kitchen Cupboard Coffee Shop. Harrison Street buzzed with activity, featuring popular spots like Jbonz, Otto’s Elephant Ears, Hilty’s, Kings BBQ, El Burro, Lonestar Hoosier Drinks, Kevin Mast, Wagyu Shack, and Hershy’s Eats & Treats. Middlebury Street offered delicious options such as Fire in the Hole, Guilt Free Donuts, and JR’s Vealburgers, while Morton Street was filled with the sweet scents from vendors like Papa’s Fippin Donuts and Who Gives a Crepe. The Country Lane Parking Lot had favorites like Randy’s Famous Popcorn and Fire Kissed Pizza, and Van Buren Street invited diners to enjoy meals from Blue Gate Restaurant and Vanilla Bean Creamery.
Harrison Street created a picturesque holiday atmosphere. Shoppers strolled along, participating in a reindeer scavenger hunt and capturing photo opportunities that would make for perfect Christmas cards. The street became a haven for warm treats such as hot chocolate and donuts, as families prepared for the enchanting Shipshewana Light Parade later in the evening.
Morton Street celebrated the holiday spirit with its Holiday Market. Local artisans showcased their handmade ornaments, jewelry, wreaths, and various crafts, providing attendees with unique shopping options.
The Christmas Vintage & Craft Bazaar drew in crowds on November 7th and 8th, with over 50 vendors displaying their artisan crafts and specialty items at the Michiana Events Center. For just $5 admission, shoppers could also participate in the Chupp’s Annual Furniture Auction.
Music filled the air as Williamson Branch, a talented family band, performed live Christmas music on the Main Stage on Middlebury Street, delighting audiences with bluegrass, country, and gospel tunes.
Families enjoyed character meet-and-greet opportunities along Middlebury Street, where Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and Frosty the Snowman brought joy to kids of all ages. The Grinch and Cindy Lou Who added to the festive fun, provided by local attractions like the Blue Gate Restaurant and the Shipshewana Craft Barn.
As the sun set, the much-anticipated Light Parade kicked off at 6:00 p.m. from the Flea Market grounds, followed by a festive lighting ceremony at approximately 6:45 p.m. on the Main Stage. Following the parade, Blue Gate Shops, Harrison Street, Davis Mercantile, and other local stores remained open until 9:00 p.m., allowing everyone to continue their holiday shopping in a magical setting.
The downtown holiday event proved to be a wonderful celebration, bringing together community members and visitors in the spirit of the season.
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