Light up the holidays at Grand River
Published 12:00 pm Monday, November 25, 2013
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Halls decked and ready to ring in the Christmas season, The Outlet Shops of Grand River hosted the Grand River Holiday Spectacular last Thursday to celebrate Santa’s arrival and commemorate the lighting of its 23 foot Christmas tree.
Leeds citizens along with neighbors from its surrounding areas and visitors exiting I-20 were in awe as they witnessed an ice skating rink at the shops.
The festivities were kicked in to high gear as news stations galore reported on the winter wonderland featured at the Grand River Plaza.
Weathering the cold, families bundled up to enjoy iceskating, face painting, balloon creations and the most anticipated arrival—Santa.
Carolers created the perfect setting as singers from the Alabama Symphony Orchestra Chorus, members of the Red Mountain Theatre Company’s youth programs performing ensemble, dancers from Alabama Ballet performed a tidbit from George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, and 12 youth singers from the Leeds Children of Joy Choir showcased the reason for the season before that jolly ole man appeared to wish everyone a Merry Christmas.
Bringing to life songs such as Hallelujah, Christmas Alphabet, Silent Night and Happy Birthday Jesus, the choirs had their audience toe tapping, hand clapping and spreading Christmas cheer.
Emceed by Magic 96.5’s morning show team of Rob & Dana, they instructed the crowd to shake their jingle bells to usher in Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
Ho, ho hoeing down the aisle Santa alongside Mrs. Claus kicked off the holiday season as children and parents cheered.
Thanking everyone for braving the winter weather, Santa and Mrs. Claus along with Rob & Dana counted down the Christmas tree lighting.
Once the tree was lit the Claus’ sat in front of the tree to see what was on the wish lists of good little boys and girls.
“I love it here,” said Rob. “And I love this night!”
Festivities throughout the Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year season will be ongoing at The Outlet Shops of Grand River.
Log onto www.shopsofgrandriver.com and their Facebook page to mark your calendars so your families and friends won’t mess this holiday fun.
