Lighted Christmas Parade canceled due to COVID-19.

Santa Claus waves to parade goers during the Hart Lighted Christmas Parade. OCP file photo

Lighted Christmas Parade canceled due to COVID-19.

Several other holiday activities scheduled.

By Allison Scarbrough, Editor.

HART — A long-time local Christmas tradition, the Lighted Christmas Parade held every year in downtown Hart on the Friday evening after Thanksgiving, is canceled this year due to COVID-19.

Although the parade is not happening, there are several holiday events and activities planned in Hart and Silver Lake in the midst of the pandemic.

The Nov. 28 Annual Silver Lake Holiday Tree Lighting is still taking place, but it will not be a public event, said Scott Beal, executive director of the Hart-Silver Lake Sand Dunes Area Chamber of Commerce. The tree and decorations at the park can be viewed by the public.

Santa Claus will still make an appearance this year. More information will be announced at a later date.

“There are events happening in the area to enjoy the holidays and support local businesses,” said Beal.

OCP file photo

The following events are planned for the holiday season:

Nov. 21: The Discover Oceana team announces a second round of the Gift Card Giveback Program that kicks off Nov. 21 at 9 a.m. at www.discoveroceana.com. Buy a $25 gift card from your favorite local merchant and receive a free $10 bonus.

Nov. 27-Jan. 1: Downtown Hart Decorated for the Holidays. Enjoy the holiday decorations and support area businesses with your holiday shopping.

Nov. 27: The Hart Historic District will be decorated for the holidays. Drive by and check out the decorations, which should be put up by Nov. 27.

Nov. 28: Hart Small Business Saturday. “Catch the excitement of the holidays and shop small with the friendly merchants of the Hart Area downtown and businesses throughout Hart and all of Oceana County.”

Dec. 4 from 4-6 p.m.: Cookie Walk at participating Hart businesses to benefit Roy’s Kids.

Dec. 5: Thirftcrawl. Get a punch card stamped at all six stops along the Hart Thrift Crawl, and you will be entered into a drawing to win a gift basket. You can also enjoy local food and beverage specials and coupons.

Letters to Santa: A special red mailbox will be located at the Hart Commons for children to send their letters to the jolly ol’ elf. Writers are asked to include their return address.

Hart Rotary is collecting toys for the Toys for Tots collection. Drop off a new, unwrapped toy at Springstead Law Offices, 214 Washington St., Hart between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Holiday Home and Storefront Decorating Contest: Homeowners and businesses get festive by participating in the HEART (Hart Economic and Redevelopment Team) Holiday Decorating Contest. Email your name, address, phone number and a photos of your decor to info@takemetohart.org by Dec. 11. There will be awards in various categories.

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