Published in the November 24, 2017 edition

MELROSE — It’s that time of year – the Chamber’s annual Home for the Holidays is coming up on Friday, December 1, and Saturday, December 2. The event is a wonderful way to welcome the holiday season to Melrose.

A weekend-long “community wide open house,” Home for the Holidays offers something for everyone. From cookie decorating and “reindeer” rides to tastings and specials, from sales and fairs, and, of course, to Santa Claus arriving in Melrose’s beautiful downtown, Home for the Holidays brings out the best in the community. Organizers invite you to leisurely stroll through our city, stopping by stores, restaurants and other institutions that will be ready to welcome you with holiday cheer. If you don’t want to stroll, hop on one of the free trolleys that will carry residents and visitors to the various business districts on Saturday.

The festivities start on Friday night, December 1, when Mayor Robert Dolan lights the tree on City Hall lawn and the twinkling lights of Main Street in preparation for the arrival of Santa Claus. Bring your singing voice and join in on the caroling too!

On Saturday, December 2, trolleys will carry shoppers, prepared to start their holiday shopping, to our different business districts and families looking for holiday cheer, to various activities in these districts. The trolley rides are made possible through the generous sponsorship of many local businesses. But the trolleys are more than just transportation: guided by city, community and business leaders, these trolleys are vehicles filled with music, laughter and fun. This year, Home for the Holidays is made possible through the generous sponsorship of Hallmark Health System, and we thank them for their continued support of the Melrose business community.

And, don’t forget: the Chamber of Commerce makes it easy for you to shop locally by purchasing a First Stop Melrose/Shop Locally Gift Certificate. In denominations of $10 and $25, these gift checks can be used at any local retailer or service provider. They can be purchased at Hourglass Gift Gallery, 458 Main Street, or Melrose Bank, 638 Main Street.

You may also call the Chamber office with any questions at 781-665-3033.