It’s a holiday tradition that started in 1911 with a community gathering featuring lights, caroling and, of course, Santa Claus.
Hometown Christmas, sponsored by the Westminster Historical Society, is a free annual event in historic Westminster to promote residents sharing the holiday spirit with each other.
“The tradition kind of went silent after 1923, but a group of us in the community regenerated it in 1987, and we have been doing it ever since,” said Linda Cherrington with the historical society. “It’s a popular event. At one time we had over 300 people.”
The event begins at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6, at Fire Station 1, 3948 W. 73rd Ave. in Westminster.
The pinnacle of the evening will be the Christmas tree lighting, which will be done this year by long-time Westminster resident Elizabeth Price. Just before the lighting, students from Ranum Middle School will sing carols.
Cherrington said children can have their picture taken with Santa for $5 and local Boy Scout troops will be selling hot dogs and pop corn.
The Rodeo Market Community Arts Center will be open from 5 to 9 p.m., with staff serving hot chocolate and offering a free art activity for children of all ages.
“We encourage people who are new to Westminster to come and enjoy this tradition,” she said. “As far as I can tell this is probably the very first tradition the city ever had, and it’s nice to continue this fun, hometown event.”
For more information on Hometown Christmas, contact Cherrington at 303-426-1858.
