The 54th annual Marblehead Christmas Walk weekend kicks off Thursday, Dec. 4, with beloved traditions including the tree lighting, Santa and Mrs. Claus’ arrival by lobster boat, parade and more.
This year’s celebration carries extra meaning for Laura Best, Mrs. Claus’ longtime “helper.” After more than four decades of listening to wishes and waving to crowds, Best will make her final appearance arriving with Santa and marching in the parade. Mrs. Claus will have the honor of flipping the switch at Friday night’s tree lighting.
What will Best miss most after this year?
“The children,” she said without hesitation. “The look on their faces, the way they look at me with awe. They look at you like you’re a princess. I once held a 3-day-old baby at the Christmas Walk. I’ll also miss the reception the town gives us.”
Chamber of Commerce Vice President Gene Arnould looks forward to the Christmas Walk every year.
“Like the Arts Festival in the summer, Christmas Walk is a party that Marblehead throws for itself each December,” Arnould said. “It’s a time to meet and greet friends, to welcome Santa arriving at the landing and watch him parade through the town. It’s a 54-year tradition of seeing the town dressed up as beautifully and warmly as it can be on an early December weekend. And it’s a great time to do some gift shopping.”
Weekend highlights:
Thursday, Dec. 4: Holiday shopping preview night around town
Friday, Dec. 5: Tree lighting, festivities start at 5:30 p.m. at National Grand parking lot
Saturday, Dec. 6: 9 a.m., Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive at State Street Landing; 11:45 a.m., parade begins on State Street
Sunday, Dec. 7: Events, shopping throughout town
Find the Christmas Walk’s full schedule in our Dec. 2 edition. For more information, visit marbleheadchamber.org.
Editor Leigh Blander is an experienced TV, radio and print journalist.
