EVENT: Manistee's 24th Annual Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend
EVENT DATE: December 6th-9th, 2012
LOCATION: Downtown Manistee, Michigan | MAP IT!
Presented by the Manistee Mainstreet Downtown Development Authority
Register for the Jingle Bell Jog: Click here for the entry form.
Register for the Gingerbread House Contest: Click here for the entry form.
EVENT DESCRIPTION:
Enjoy roasted chestnuts and carolers as you take part in one of Michigan's most unique holiday celebrations. A whole weekend of excitement including the Sleighbell Parade on Saturday at 5:30 pm with horse drawn entries, historic building tours, special Christmas production at the historic Ramsdell Theatre, Festival of Trees, concerts, museum and art exhibits, and much more.
Saint Nicholas Signature Sponsor:
Mrs. Claus Premiere Sponsors:
Sleighbell Parade Sponsor:
-Roasted Chestnuts Sponsor: Kendra C. Thompson Architects, P.C.
-Community Tree Horse Team Sponsor: Orschal Construction
-Carriage Rides Sponsor: Filer Credit Union
-Jack Frost Partner Sponsors: Port City Organics Real Food Market, Little River Band of Ottawa Indians Executive Branch
- Troops Tree Horse Team Sponsor: Coast 97 & News 98
- Santa's Northern Michigan Headquarters Sponsor: Boyer Agency
- Downtown Soup Cook-Off Sponsor: DTE Energy
- Dog Sled Teams Sponsor: Stege Chiropractic Health Center
- Sleighbell Prince & Princess Pageant Sponsor: Play Clothes
- Rudolph Associate Sponsors: Will Zosczak Logging & Trucking, Manistee Tire Service, Top Line Electric, Riemer Eye Center
- Santa's Helpers: Briny Building, Goody's Juice & Java, The Bookstore/Manistee, Birchwood Adult Foster Care Home, Edward Jones - Jeff Reau, Knizacky Insurance Agency, Sports Ink, Ronald D. Gardin, DDS
- Special Thanks To: City of Manistee, Manistee County Visitors Bureau
EVENTS PRIOR TO THE FESTIVAL
Irving Berlin's White Christmas
Ramsdell Theatre
7:30 pm - Friday, November 30
7:30 pm - Saturday, December 1
2:00 pm - Sunday, December 2
Based on the beloved, timeless movie classic made popular by Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, and Rosemary Clooney.
To order tickets visit our website at manisteecivicplayers.org or call TREATicketing at 800-836-0717.
Visions of Sugar Plums, Student Art Show
Ramsdell Theatre Hardy Hall
6:00-8:30 pm - Friday, November 30
1:00-9:00 pm - Saturday, December 1
1:00-5:00 pm - Sunday, December 2
Every other year we honor our Manistee County students by displaying their creativity in the form of art. This is truly a show that will delight your senses and make you smile as you wander through our gallery and see the amazing imagination and focus that these young people put into their works. Sometimes the technique has not yet been mastered, but the expression that comes forth from the unboxed thinking can give you reason to smile and maybe even transport you back to wishing you might be a kid again and be able to unleash your inner creativity. Come and enjoy this excellent show!
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Chamber Business After Hours, 5pm - 7pm
Ramsdell Theatre Ballroom
This is an opportunity for a special, festive preview of the Festival of Trees, with beverages and appetizers included. This event is open to Chamber members, business people and the public. Admission is $10 per person.Sponsored by West Shore Bank.
In Vogue Brass Ensemble, 5pm
Under Vogue Marquee
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Victorian Gingerbread House Contest, 10am - 7pm
Downtown River Street Merchants
“Storefront” Gingerbread House Competition. Yes! That’s Right! Our 6th annual Gingerbread House contest has moved Downtown! Entries will be displayed in downtown Manistee storefront windows from Thursday, December 6th to Saturday, December 8th. Take a walk down historic River Street and vote for your favorite Gingerbread House for “People’s Choice Award” with a canned good or $1 a vote to help Manistee local food banks. Open to everyone, all ages and skill levels. Submission deadline: December 5th. Voter information will be available at all participating merchant locations. 231-233-6623 or 231-510-3691.
Sleighbell Princess & Prince Pageant, 6:30pm - 8pm
Ramsdell Theatre Ballroom
This 3rd Annual event is for children in grades K-5. Two winners in two age categories will be crowned based on overall poise, neatness of appearance, grace and enthusiasm. For more information contact 231-398-9450. Sponsored by Play Clothes.
Christmas in Wartime, 10am - 5pm
Manistee Historical Museum, 425 River Street
“Waiting for a Letter from Home: Christmas in Manistee County during Wartime from the Civil War through the War in the Gulf”. A historical exhibit centering on the Christmas season in Manistee County during wartime. The display features a variety of Christmas trees as well as artifacts, uniforms, and information on the various wars and the people who served in them. The toy trains will also be operating! Admission – Students $1; Adults $3; Adult Couples $5; Families (Parents & their minor children) $7; Museum members and invited guests are free.
Victorian Dessert Contest, 7:00 pm
Faith Covenant Church, 475 8th Street, Manistee
The Manistee Choral Society, all outfitted in elegant Victorian dress, present Christmas and seasonal music. While at the intermission, the guests are served a traditional Victorian dessert with all the trimmings. $10.00 per person, tickets are required and are available at Goody's Juice & Java, 343 River Street. For more information contact 231-723-3932 or 231-398-0296.
EVENTS DURING THE FESTIVAL
Friday, December 7, 2012
Victorian Gingerbread House Contest, 10am - 7pm
Downtown River Street Merchants
“Storefront” Gingerbread House Competition. Yes! That’s Right! Our 6th annual Gingerbread House contest has moved Downtown! Entries will be displayed in downtown Manistee storefront windows from Thursday, December 6th to Saturday, December 8th. Take a walk down historic River Street and vote for your favorite Gingerbread House for “People’s Choice Award” with a canned good or $1 a vote to help Manistee local food banks. Open to everyone, all ages and skill levels. Submission deadline: December 5th. Voter information will be available at all participating merchant locations. 231-233-6623 or 231-510-3691.
Christmas in Wartime, 10am - 7:30pm
Manistee Historical Museum, 425 River Street
“Waiting for a Letter from Home: Christmas in Manistee County during Wartime from the Civil War through the War in the Gulf”. A historical exhibit centering on the Christmas season in Manistee County during wartime. The display features a variety of Christmas trees as well as artifacts, uniforms, and information on the various wars and the people who served in them. The toy trains will also be operating! Admission – Students $1; Adults $3; Adult Couples $5; Families (Parents & their minor children) $7; Museum members and invited guests are free.
Cookie Fun for Everyone, 10am - 8pm
Manistee Inn & Marina, 378 River Street
Manistee County Habitat will be providing baked cutout Christmas cookies for people to decorate (all supplies provided.) You can then purchase these cookies as a gift (gift wrap available) or just to eat yourselves! We will be asking $9 per dozen cookies or $5 for a half dozen. All profits will benefit Manistee County Habitat for Humanity.
Sleighbell Chocolate Shop, 3pm - 8pm
318 River Street, Manistee
“For the Love of Children and Chocolate.” You’ll find over 50 luscious chocolate treats such as truffles, barks, fudge, hot cocoa, chocolate chili (M-m-m-m) and more! 318 River St. All proceeds benefit the Manistee County Child Advocacy Center to help prevent child abuse.
Soup Cook-Off, 4pm - 6:30 pm
Downtown River Street Merchant Stores
Warm up by sampling a variety of tasty soup creations found inside downtown businesses. Be sure to pick up a scorecard and rate your favorites! Tasting from 4-6:30pm with the winners announced at 7:00pm. Enjoy holiday music from local musicians while you taste. Free. Presented by the Manistee Main Street DDA. 231-398-3262.
Visions of Sugar Plumbs Student Art Show, Ramsdell Theatre Hardy Hall 5pm - 9pm
This is truly a show that will delight your senses and make you smile as you wander through our gallery and see the amazing imagination and focus that these young people put into their ‘works’. Sometimes the technique has not yet been mastered, but the expression that comes forth from the unboxed thinking can give you reason to smile and maybe even transport you back to wishing you might be a kid again and be able to unleash your inner creativity. Come and enjoy this excellent show!!!!
Bell Tower Concert, 7pm
Guardian Angels Catholic Church
Christmas selections will be played on the 1910 Meneeley Chime.
Irving Berlin's White Christmas, 7:30 pm
Ramsdell Theatre mainstage
Music and Lyrics by Irving Berlin and Book by David Ives and Paul Blake. Based on the beloved, timeless movie classic made popular by Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, and Rosemary Clooney.
Note: River Street will be closed to vehicular traffic at 2:00pm for carriage rides and to prepare for the Sleighbell Parade
"Pay What You Can" Christmas Tree Sale, 8am - 1pm
Manistee Inn & Marina, 378 River Street
Pay what you can for a locally sourced Christmas tree.
Sleighbell Craft Show & Bazaar, 9am - 4pm
Manistee High School, 12th Street
Sponsored by the West Shore Medical Center Auxiliary. Over 140 crafters. The highlight of this annual craft show is the Auxiliary Bake Sale! All items are homemade by members and include breads, pies, cakes and cookies. Raffle tickets will also be available at the Auxiliary booth right inside the entrance with prizes ranging from cash, food, spa, golf outings to pictures. The raffle drawing will take place at the end of the show.
Cookie Fun for Everyone, 10am - 8pm
Manistee Inn & Marina, 378 River Street
Manistee County Habitat will be providing baked cutout Christmas cookies for people to decorate (all supplies provided.) You can then purchase these cookies as a gift (gift wrap available) or just to eat yourselves! We will be asking $9 per dozen cookies or $5 for a half dozen. All profits will benefit Manistee County Habitat for Humanity.
Victorian Gingerbread House Contest, 10am - 3pm (Awards at 3pm)
Downtown River Street Merchants
“Storefront” Gingerbread House Competition. Yes! That’s Right! Our 6th annual Gingerbread House contest has moved Downtown! Entries will be displayed in downtown Manistee storefront windows from Thursday, December 6th to Saturday, December 8th. Take a walk down historic River Street and vote for your favorite Gingerbread House for “People’s Choice Award” with a canned good or $1 a vote to help Manistee local food banks. Open to everyone, all ages and skill levels. Submission deadline: December 5th. Voter information will be available at all participating merchant locations. 231-233-6623 or 231-510-3691.
Christmas in War Time, 10am - 8pm
Manistee Historical Museum, 425 River Street
“Waiting for a Letter from Home: Christmas in Manistee County during Wartime from the Civil War through the War in the Gulf”. A historical exhibit centering on the Christmas season in Manistee County during wartime. The display features a variety of Christmas trees as well as artifacts, uniforms, and information on the various wars and the people who served in them. The toy trains will also be operating! Admission – Students $1; Adults $3; Adult Couples $5; Families (Parents & their minor children) $7; Museum members and invited guests are free.
Historic River Street Merchant Open House, 10am - 8pm
Visit with merchants dressed in Victorian garb in Manistee’s unique shops; enjoy great shopping while sampling holiday food & drinks. Be sure to pick up a punch card and visit participating Downtown Manistee merchants. Turn in your punch card during “Downtown Ladies Night” on December 12 to be entered into a drawing for a fantastic prize basket!
Jingle Bell Jog, 10am
Kennedy School, 6th & Maple Streets, Manistee
Entry fee: $15 before Dec. 1, $20 on race day. Entry includes specially designed long sleeve t-shirt or stocking cap. Packet Pick-up/Late Registration: 8:45-9:45 am at Kennedy Elementary. Race will begin promptly at 10am with awards immediately following. 3.1 mile (5K) run through the streets and picturesque neighborhoods of historic Manistee – during the Victorian Sleighbell & Old Christmas Weekend Celebration. Trophies for the top overall runners and walkers. Unique medals to the top 3 finishers in each age category for the run. Medals to the top 5 overall male & female walkers. Age categories: Run – male & female; 10 and under, 11-13, 14-16, 17-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+up. Walk – male & female division only. For more info: ethuemmel@manistee.org or call (231) 233-1433.
Lumberjack Luncheon, 11am - 2pm
412 4th Street, Manistee
Lumberjack Luncheon…honoring those that served us long ago. A traditional lunch of homemade beef stew over biscuits, applesauce, cider and those church ladies’ famous homemade pie. All this plus a raffle and a tour of our historic building for $8.00.
Horsedrawn Carriage Rides, 12pm - 4pm
Downtown Manistee River Street
Take a step into the past and experience Downtown Manistee in a holiday decorated vis-à-vis. Free. Generously sponsored by Filer Credit Union.
Sleighbell Chocolate Shop, 12pm - 7pm
318 River Street
“For the Love of Children and Chocolate.” You’ll find over 50 luscious chocolate treats such as truffles, barks, fudge, hot cocoa, chocolate chili (M-m-m-m) and more! 318 River St. All proceeds benefit the Manistee County Child Advocacy Center to help prevent child abuse.
Michigan Audubon Chickadee Christmas at Lake Bluff Bird Sanctuary, 10am - 2pm
2890 Lakeshore Rd, Manistee
Visit the former Ed & Trudy Gray estate, Michigan Audubon nature gift/bookstore, Michigan Loon association gift/bookstore, works of local artist's for sale, silent auction. On hand will be Bob Paetschow, local nature photographer, Manistee Audubon birder(s) and Michigan Loon Association staff. The fireplaces will be lit and free hot chocolate-coffee-cookies. See you then!
Open House at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 12pm - 2pm
313 4th Street, Manistee
Featuring refreshments, crafts for the kids, tours of the historic (125 years+) church and a classic retelling of the Christmas Story. Free. 231-723-2943.
Ramsdell Theatre Tours, 1pm - 4pm
Corner of Maple & First Street, Manistee
The Manistee Civic Players once again offer their awesome 45 minute guided tours of this lovingly restored landmark. $5 per person
Historic Manistee Firehouse Tours, 1pm - 4pm
281 First Street, Manistee
Enjoy a tour of the longest continually-operated fire hall in the state of Michigan. Built in 1888 and listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places.
Festival of Trees, 1pm - 8pm
Ramsdell Theatre Ballroom
Festival of the Trees. Creatively decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, tabletop items and other Christmas decor designed by local holiday enthusiasts. Bring your pen and get ready to bid on these lovely holiday treasures, decorated by area schools, community organizations and businesses! Proceeds from this year's event will benefit Love INC of Manistee County and support the Chamber’s community programs. Historic Ramsdell Theatre Ballroom, 101 Maple Street. Admission: $3 adults, $2 students, $5 family. Sponsored in part by Filer Credit Union.
Visions of Sugar Plumbs Student Art Show, Ramsdell Theatre Hardy Hall 1pm - 9pm
This is truly a show that will delight your senses and make you smile as you wander through our gallery and see the amazing imagination and focus that these young people put into their ‘works’. Sometimes the technique has not yet been mastered, but the expression that comes forth from the unboxed thinking can give you reason to smile and maybe even transport you back to wishing you might be a kid again and be able to unleash your inner creativity. Come and enjoy this excellent show!!!!
In Vogue Brass Ensemble, 2pm
Under Vogue Marquee
Santa's Arrival, 2pm - 4pm
351 River Street
Be there to welcome Santa to Manistee as he arrives in a special mode of transportation. Visit with the “jolly old elf” at his Northern Michigan Headquarters at 351 River Street until 4pm. Be sure to bring your letters to Santa! Generously sponsored by Boyer Agency, with support from Jackpine Business Center.
Meet the Sled Dog Team, 2:30pm - 5pm
Downtown Manistee River Street
Meet the Dog Sled Teams. The corner of River and Division Streets. The “Sled Dog Express” is in town to lead off the Sleighbell Parade, and you can meet the dogs and trainers beforehand! Learn about dog sledding, see equipment and ask questions about the classic and practical sport of dog sled racing. Sled Dog Express is a local sprint racing team and competes throughout Michigan. Bring your camera, but not your pets.
Vogue Theatre Welcome Center, 3pm - 5pm
Be sure to stop in and see the wonderful progress that has been made on this wonderful 1930s movie theatre. This event will provide visitors the opportunity to see firsthand the new theatre seats which are available for purchase. Updates on the restoration project will also be available. Vogue merchandise will be for sale and refreshments will be served. Gardin Building located at 390 River Street.
Manistee Community Band Christmas Concert, 4pm
Downtown Manistee River Street
Open-air Christmas concert performed by the Manistee Community Band.
Hot Cider Served, 4pm
Downtown Manistee River Street
Warm the cockles of your heart (and your tummy, too) with a cup of FREE warm apple cider. Corner of Poplar and River Streets, near the Vogue Theater. Sponsored by Northwestern Bank.
Hot Drinks & Cool Treats, 4pm - 8pm
Manistee Senior Center
Come in and join us before, during and following the Sleighbell Parade. Manistee County Council on Aging invites you to come inside the Senior Center to warm-up where we will be selling walking tacos, hotdogs, hot chocolate, coffee and cookies. All proceeds to benefit the Manistee County Council on Aging programs.
Kiwanis Cops, 4:30pm
Downtown River Street
Members of the Manistee Kiwanis Club will be dressed in traditional police uniforms to help maintain crowd control!
Roasted Chestnuts, 4:30pm - 7:30pm
Downtown River Street
Sample freshly roasted chestnuts at various locations. Presented by Kendra C. Thomson Architects, P.C.
Jingle Mingle, 4:30pm - 9pm
Ramsdell Inn, 399 River Street
Party begins one hour before The Sleighbell Parade steps off. Mix and Mingle upstairs in our stunning lobby. See the gorgeous Sleighbell procession from the warmth and comfort of our lobby. Admission includes samplings of your choice from an All Michigan Showcase of Beer, Wine, Appetizers and Desserts. $5.00 from every admission will be donated to the Vogue Theatre Restoration Project. Dress up and savor every moment of this year's celebration! Advance Tickets available in our lobby, m-f 10 am ‘til 6 pm. Space is limited! Tickets are $50.00. Payable by cash, check or charge. Limited to 75 persons.
Muskegon Regional Police Pipes & Drums, 4:30pm - 5pm
A unit of the Muskegon Regional Police Pipes & Drums will perform a variety of tunes in the spirit of Highland music. Come hear the pipers piping and the drummers drumming near the Vogue Theater, corner of Poplar & River Streets. Sponsored by Northwestern Bank.
Victorian Sleighbell Parade, 5:30pm
Downtown Manistee River Street
During the parade, postal carriers will collect "Letters to Santa" for official delivery to the North Pole.
After the final Christmas Tree is pulled down the parade route, the crowd follows the tree to the fountain plaza to sing Christmas Carols during the Tree Lighting ceremony.
Warm Up After the Parade, 6pm - 7:30pm
Manistee United Methodist Church, 387 First Street
Manistee United Methodist Church, will once again offer their post-parade dinner of Sloppy Joes, BBQ Pulled Pork, Hot Dogs, Chips, Dessert, Hot Cocoa and coffee. Adults $8.00. Kids ages 5-10 $4.00. 5 and under free. For more information call 231-723-2414. Dinner by the Missions Committee.
Gaslight Guided Tour of the Babcock House, 7pm - 9pm
420 Third Street, Manistee
Take a tour of an 1880’s Manistee lumberman’s Victorian mansion by gaslight. The Babcock House is listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. Located at 420 Third Street, tours will begin at 7pm and 8pm.
Jingle Bell Jam, 7pm - ?
Eagles Club, 55 Division Street, Manistee
Strap on your dancing shoes and get ready to kick up your heels at the 11th Annual Jingle Bell Jam at the Manistee Eagles Aerie 1675. Doors open at 6pm and the live entertainment begins at 7pm. Five great bands (RedLine, Triple Shot, Wild Card, Junk Monkey and Rock Supply) will rock the roof off. Food and beverages will be available. Admission to the concert is one (1) new, unwrapped toy or cash donation. This event is coordinated with the Holiday Hope Team and FiveCap to collect Toys for Tots/Gifts for Teens for local children. All ages welcome. 231-510-9674
Santa's Headquarters Open, 7pm
Visit with the “jolly old elf” at his headquarters at 351 River Street. Be sure to bring your letters to Santa! Generously sponsored by Boyer Agency, with support from Jackpine Business Center.
Irving Berlin's White Christmas, 7:30pm
Ramsdell Theatre Mainstage
Music and Lyrics by Irving Berlin and Book by David Ives and Paul Blake. Based on the beloved, timeless movie classic made popular by Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, and Rosemary Clooney.
Men's Club Breakfast, 8:30am - 1:30pm
St. Joseph Parish Hall, 249 6th Street Manistee
Enjoy pancakes, French toast, sausage, ham, scrambled eggs, Western scrambled eggs, hash browns, toast, bread pudding, applesauce, juice, milk or coffee. $6 for adults, $3 ages 6-12, kids under 6 eat free. St. Joseph Parish Center, 249 Sixth Street. 231-723-2619.
Victorian Church Service, 10am
First Congregational Church, 4th & Oak Streets Manistee
Held at the Historic First Congregational Church, Fourth & Oak Streets. Patterned from an actual turn-of-the-century worship service with choral quartet and period carols.
Festival of Trees, 10am - 2pm
Ramsdell Theatre Ballroom
Festival of the Trees. Creatively decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, tabletop items and other Christmas decor designed by local holiday enthusiasts. Bring your pen and get ready to bid on these lovely holiday treasures, decorated by area schools, community organizations and businesses! Proceeds from this year's event will benefit Love INC of Manistee County and support the Chamber’s community programs. Historic Ramsdell Theatre Ballroom, 101 Maple Street. Admission: $3 adults, $2 students, $5 family. Sponsored in part by Filer Credit Union.
Christmas in Wartime, 10am - 5pm
Manistee Historical Museum, 425 River Street
“Waiting for a Letter from Home: Christmas in Manistee County during Wartime from the Civil War through the War in the Gulf”. A historical exhibit centering on the Christmas season in Manistee County during wartime. The display features a variety of Christmas trees as well as artifacts, uniforms, and information on the various wars and the people who served in them. The toy trains will also be operating! Admission – Students $1; Adults $3; Adult Couples $5; Families (Parents & their minor children) $7; Museum members and invited guests are free.
Craft Sale, 10am - 4pm
Manistee Inn & Marina, 378 River Street
Handmade items only with all vendors donating a percentage of their profit from sales of that one day event to the local Habitat affiliate. Manistee Inn & Marina Banquet Room, 378 River St.
Photos with Santa Paws, 1pm - 4pm
Parkdale Animal Hospital, 420 Parkdale Avenue (US31)
Have your pet’s picture taken with Santa Paws at Parkdale Animal Hospital, 420 Parkdale Avenue, Manistee, MI. All proceeds to benefit Homeward Bound Animal Shelter. Cost: $10.00. Any pet food donations made that day will be matched with Parkdale Animal Hospital's Pound for Pound, Can for Can donation program to further benefit Homeward Bound.
Visions of Sugar Plums Student Art Show, Ramsdell Theatre Hardy Hall 1pm - 5pm
This is truly a show that will delight your senses and make you smile as you wander through our gallery and see the amazing imagination and focus that these young people put into their ‘works’. Sometimes the technique has not yet been mastered, but the expression that comes forth from the unboxed thinking can give you reason to smile and maybe even transport you back to wishing you might be a kid again and be able to unleash your inner creativity. Come and enjoy this excellent show!!!!
Santa's Headquarters, 2pm - 5pm
Visit with the “jolly old elf” at his Northern Michigan Headquarters at 351 River Street. Be sure to bring your letters to Santa! Generously sponsored by Boyer Agency, with support from Jackpine Business Center.
Irving Berlin's White Christmas, 2pm
Ramsdell Theatre Mainstage
Music and Lyrics by Irving Berlin and Book by David Ives and Paul Blake. Based on the beloved, timeless movie classic made popular by Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, and Rosemary Clooney.
A Service of Lessons and Carols, 3pm
Trinity Lutheran Church, 320 Oak Street Manistee
Special music and lessons for this Holy season. The service will be followed by light refreshments. Trinity Lutheran Church, 420 Oak Street. All are welcome.
