Contributed by Ailis Vann
The Greater Palmer Chamber of Commerce is excited and feeling festive as we prepare for our annual holiday event, Colony Christmas! Our theme for 2021 is Hometown Holidays and we have all kinds of hometown fun planned. Join us the weekend of December 10th, 11th, and 12th in Palmer for a myriad of contests, games, and activities. This spectacular celebration of both our winter holidays and our rich heritage is sure to bring a warmth of spirit that even a cold Palmer wind can’t beat! Stroll through our delightful winter garden of light, warm up with a hot meal at one of our fine local eateries, and take care of that pesky holiday shopping list with unique local gifts purveyed at our renowned craft fairs or any one of our amazing small businesses.
A variety of family friendly activities will be hosted throughout Palmer to entertain the young and the young at heart. Crafts? We have you covered. Concerts? You bet we have them! We’ll even have a 5ishk so you can get your exercise in and justify all of the delicious holiday sweets you’ll find. And don’t miss your opportunity with Santa and some magical ponies. Both will be in attendance, so don’t miss your chance to get a photo with either.
Looking for a new event? We have you covered there too! We are excited to bring the Arctic Olympics to Palmer. This feat of strength and skills will include a taffy pull, sled races, and our smoosh races. The team of 4 with the lowest score will win some fantastic prizes.
Are cookies or other baked goods more your speed? Have no fear, we have something for you too. Our ever popular Gingerbread Contest, brought to you by Alaska USA Federal Credit Union will be a great opportunity for you to show off your baking skills. If cookies are more your speed, bring your delightful treats to My Favorite Realty for judging!
Craft fairs are a huge part of holiday festivals, and we have added a THIRD venue to our craft fair lineup and expanded the craft fairs you know and love. You can find artisans at the Palmer Train Depot on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday; at the Mat-Su Borough Gym on Saturday and Sunday; and NEW this year: the Palmer Senior Center! We are so excited to have three venues full of handcrafted goods sure to bring a smile to everyone on your list. When you purchase crafts and products from local businesses, you support hopes and dreams and there’s no need to worry about things being stuck on a boat out somewhere.
Palmer doesn’t skimp on the holiday lights, so come on down to the parade of lights at 5pm on December 11th, powered by MEA. You’d think we’d cap the night there, but wait, there’s more! Stick around after the parade to feast your eyes on the dazzling fireworks display,which will start around 6:00pm. If you’re still craving fun, community, and holiday cheer, join us at the events tent for a 2 hour concert from Boogie Shoes.
Make it a priority to bring the family to our cozy little town of Palmer and join us as we embrace the spirit of the holidays, and the spirit of all of our heritage in a community celebration that’ll beat any winter’s chill. Find a schedule of events and the parade application on our website: www.palmerchamber.org or check out Colony Christmas Palmer Alaska on Facebook.
