Before the gifts were exchanged, downtown Statesboro kicked off the holiday season with “Christmas in the Boro,” a lively celebration along East Main Street. This year’s theme, “Christmas Around the World,” created a joyful atmosphere filled with music, lights, and family traditions.
As Friday night unfolded, the heart of Statesboro came alive. Families filled the streets, children cheered along the parade route, and parents snapped pictures under sparkling storefront lights. The sounds of the season rang out, echoing the joy in the air.
Organized by the Downtown Statesboro Development Authority, the event ran from 5:30 to 8 p.m. It transformed the area into a global holiday gathering, filled with live shows, food, shopping, and activities for all ages.
The evening began with the “Christmas Around the World” parade. Sponsored by Bulloch Solutions, the colorful floats and community groups made their way along West Main Street, past the Bulloch County Courthouse, drawing enthusiastic crowds.
As the parade wrapped up, faux snow began to drift through downtown, enhancing the festive vibe on East Main Street.
Next, the Community Stage at the courthouse showcased performances all evening. The lineup included the Cotton Rose School of Dance, the Statesboro Youth Chorale, and performances by the Statesboro High School Fine Arts, featuring “ELF: The Musical.” Carolers in Victorian costumes added to the holiday spirit throughout the streets.
This year introduced the International Food Court across from City Hall, where local eateries showcased dishes from different countries. Attendees sampled diverse foods and voted for their favorites. Huey’s emerged as the winner of this delicious competition.
Families had plenty to do, from a free hayride to bouncy houses, cookie decorating, and a special “Christmas Around the World” passport guiding children through themed stops. The Book Bus provided free books to encourage young readers.
Santa and Mrs. Claus made a spirited appearance, greeting families inside the Averitt Center for the Arts. Children eagerly stood in line for photos, while holiday concerts by The Brownies took place every 20 minutes in the Emma Kelly Theater.
Storefronts also contributed to the festive atmosphere with the Holiday Window Decorating Contest. The Flower Girl took first place, while Missy’s Hair Studio and Prom Bae won second place and the People’s Choice Award, respectively.
As the night drew to a close, families lingered beneath the lights, playing in the faux snow and chatting with neighbors. “Christmas Around the World” highlighted the spirit of community, marking the holiday season with shared moments and cultural celebration.
Community engagement during events like these has been on the rise, with a recent survey indicating that 73% of locals value community activities that connect families and foster relationships. These gatherings are not just entertaining; they strengthen bonds and create lasting memories.
So, whether it’s sampling a new dish, watching a live performance, or simply enjoying the festive decorations, events like “Christmas in the Boro” remind us of the joy of coming together during the holiday season.
For more details on community events and their impact, check out this report from the National Endowment for the Arts here.
