By: Aarika Copeland | Category: In Our Communities | Issue: November 2023
Three Twenty on Main's co-owner Susan Gebhart actively support Claremore's youth livestock community while facilitating weddings, meetings, and events. Value News photos with TG Photography
As the golden hues of autumn give way to the twinkling lights of winter, Claremore transforms into a festive wonderland, reminiscent of those heartwarming scenes straight out of a holiday movie. “Visit our hometown, it’s just like a movie,” is more than just this year’s Home for the Holidays theme, it’s a heartfelt invitation to residents and visitors alike.
With a month-long series of events and festivities, local shops are flinging open their doors with warmth and cheer, encouraging everyone to revel in the season’s magic happening between Will Roger’s Boulevard and Brady Street. Events like Holiday Open House and Dickens on the Boulevard, there is a sprinkling of seasonal joy for everyone. With “free admission, free parking, and a family-friendly experience”, Tanya Andrews, Visit Claremore Director, believes participants are sure to leave each event steeped in holiday cheer. You won’t want to miss Christmas at the Belvedere, Claremore Lake Lights, or the many other planned festivities.
Claremore has captured that cinematic charm with picturesque streets and a festive glow but forget seeing this town through a screen. Join in the community’s shared celebrations and experience the wonder of the holidays in Claremore for yourself!
“This is how we repay the investment our neighbors have made,” Andrews said.
Visit Claremore Director Tanya Andrews works tirelessly to promote Claremore throughout the U.S.
So, consider choosing local businesses as you ponder your holiday plans this year. They’re not just stores. They are your neighbors, friends, and Claremore’s heartbeat.
For more information on each event and for a list of all participating businesses, visit www.visitclaremore.com/holidays.
Step right into the festive heart of Claremore with their Holiday Open House, a delightful game of bingo that takes you on a journey through local businesses. Bingo cards are available from participating businesses between Will Rogers Blvd and Brady Street. As shoppers meander through various shops and restaurants, not only will they get a sneak peek at exclusive holiday sales, but they’ll be treated to scrumptious snacks and refreshing drinks. Get your card stamped at each stop! Once a bingo is achieved, drop your card off at Three Twenty on Main to enter their grand giveaway and sample some local baked goods, including local favorite Front Porch Bakery. With prizes generously donated by those same previously visited businesses, shoppers won’t want to miss out. Stay tuned, as winners will be contacted the following day. Happy shopping, snacking, and stamping!
Claremore’s annual Veterans Day Parade is a day to honor and support local heroes. Come out to help them line Claremore streets with community warmth and appreciation. The parade begins at Claremore Expo Center and travels down Will Rogers Blvd.
The renowned Belvedere Mansion invites visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in a Victorian Christmas wonderland. Known for its enchanting tea room and restaurant, The Pink House, the mansion will don festive attire, both inside and out. Reminiscent of a heartwarming holiday film, it presents the perfect backdrop for that magical Christmas photo.
Hometown businesses shine the brightest, offering unique finds and exclusive specials during Pink Friday, a designated day that encourages consumers to shop locally and support small businesses. Explore the heart and soul of local commerce and take advantage of the first big shopping opportunity of the holiday season!
It’s a yuletide time machine with Dickens on the Boulevard, Claremore’s annual Victorian-themed Christmas festivity that brings the charm of a bygone era right to their downtown streets. Local businesses will warm shoppers’ hands and hearts with cups of rich hot chocolate and steamy cider while carolers fill the air with the spirit of the season. Experience the magic these local merchants have conjured up, complete with multiple picturesque photo ops and selfie stations, several thoughtfully crafted by Studio B Artworks. A costume contest is to be held both nights, so tighten your bonnets and button your trousers. And what’s a Christmas celebration without Santa? Head over to Three Twenty on Main for those cherished Santa photos. Plus, while you indulge in local shopping, a local charity is ready to gift wrap your treasures while your little ones can pen letters to Santa. Join Claremore for this beloved downtown event.
Don’t miss the 4th annual Reindeer Games, held with Dickens On The Boulevard. Claremore Museum of History invites the community to experience a truly unique local offering where visitors can capture magical moments alongside real-life reindeer. Caroling, face painting, a balloon artist, and Rosie the Reindeer feeding in Gazebo Park! It’s not every day you get to meet Santa’s most trusted companions right here in Claremore!
Residents and visitors can drive through Claremore Lake Park and experience the Christmas lights and displays from the comfort of their warm vehicles. Lights will begin each night at dusk and remain on until 10 p.m. The Claremore Lake lights will begin at the Blue Starr Road entrance and extend throughout the park. Multiple photo opportunities will be available, and visitors are encouraged to use the hashtag #ClaremoreLakeLights on social media to capture and share memories.
Hometown stores offer unique finds, heartfelt service, and a shopping experience steeped in local charm. By choosing to support local businesses, you’re not just finding that perfect gift, but also investing in community growth, creativity, and future. Choose Claremore’s local commerce this Black Friday.
Share our hometown holiday celebrations with family and friends as they come to visit. From the bright lights of Claremore Lake to our museums, local shops and restaurants, there will be holiday cheer everywhere!
For more information on each of these events and for a list of all participating businesses visit www.visitclaremore.com/holidays.
Sailor Antiques and Collectibles co-owner Brenda Reno
918-342-5357
400 Veterans Parkway | Claremore, OK 74017
Subscribe
For Free!