Christmas in Canton: Longstanding tradition returns

By Courtney Warren

The stockings have been hung by the chimney with care since around October 31 mid-afternoon, and the Christmas lights are finally on the square. 

While some would prefer they stay year-round, the Canton Christmas lights are placed shortly before Thanksgiving, and this year is no exception. 

After huge renovations were done to the Canton Courthouse lawn by the Madison County Board of Supervisors, including new sod, a sprinkler system, and new sidewalk, there were rumors of a “canceled Christmas.”

The Canton News is excited to report that, while Christmas can never be canceled, the tradition of lights of the square will continue, as well.

In an effort to protect the new renovations, there will be new regulations.

According to Canton Mayor William Truly, “The City has already begun installing the Christmas decorations for all to enjoy. Christmas in Canton will continue to go on. We will have our Christmas festival. There were issues in regards to the machinery and rides on the new courthouse lawn. We’re looking at putting some of those heavy rides on Union Street.”

New Canton Tourism Executive Director May Vaughn McCarty said there are so many new things to look forward to at Canton Christmas, and most of them are interactive attractions.

“While Mrs. Claus’ Story Time has been a cherished and expected tradition for many years, we are proud to once again highlight her as a Canton Christmas Festival treasure!”

“Newer to the festival this year, we are excited to announce, is our ‘Singalong Fest with the Best magical cast of characters. Visitors are invited to join our elves, princesses, and superheroes as they lead in caroling, take photos, and offer you the opportunity to share your favorite family holiday traditions on stage.”

Continuing the idea of interactions, McCarty said there will be an “I Spy Santa’s Workshop.”

“Children will be in awe as they gaze into the windows of the Rose Garden Room of the Trolio Hotel next to our Welcome Center, which has been completely transformed to look like the magical interior of Santa’s Workshop. There, they can peak into the windows to try and spy the elves’ top ten favorite toys with the help of custom ‘I Spy’ cards illustrating each of the ten toys preselected for the event,” she said.

“This year’s festival would not be taking place if not for a true team effort. I’ve only been with the tourism office for one week, and I can honestly say the energy I’ve witnessed surrounding this event is nothing short of inspiring.”

“It takes a Christmas village to put this event together, and, luckily, the city of Canton has just that.”

“Everyone involved, from the city to the county, CMU, the merchants, the police department, and of course our very talented staff, wants this festival to not only happen, but to be the success it has always been in years past. I am beyond proud to be associated with this organization, our partners, and their dedication. 

“The fact that this has all happened in a short 3 week time frame is quite impressive and should be commended. This event usually requires at least six months of advanced planning and organizing,” said McCarty.

McCarty, a Canton native, recently returned home with her husband Tripp and son Stock. Tripp is now the headmaster at Canton Academy, where Stock attends 4k. She is excited to be back and a part of Canton Christmas but even more excited to be working with JoAnn Gordon, who originally started Canton Christmas many years ago.

“Canton is home for me. Being back after 18 years, and being a part of something as special as the Christmas Festival, surrounded by a team like this… I could just burst with pride. When you take an entire community of organizations willing to work together, a rockstar staff, and add the one, the only, JoAnn Gordon back in the mix... Santa himself doesn’t have as great a team. It’s Christmas Magic. Words cannot express how thankful we all are for JoAnn’s leadership and guidance this year. JoAnn started the Christmas Festival. We’re honored to work alongside her to ensure her legacy continues,” said McCarty.

The lights are hung on the square with care, and Cantonians know St. Nick will soon be here!