JAMESTOWN, N.Y. — Collaborative Children’s Solutions and the City of Jamestown are excited to announce that despite the snow and chilly temperatures, the much-anticipated Jingle and Mingle Winter Festival and Parade will go on this Saturday, December 7, 2024. Packed with festive activities and magical moments, the event promises to delight visitors of all ages.
Jingle and Mingle Festival Schedule
The day begins with the Jingle and Mingle Festival, offering something for everyone:
- 1 p.m.: A spellbinding magic show by Nick Mambretti at the Robert H. Jackson Center (305 E. 4th St.).
- 2 p.m.: A chance to meet Buddy the Elf, Mrs. Claus, the Grinch, and Frozen characters at Jamestown City Hall, along with festive Magic Moments Carriage Rides.
- 3 p.m.: Enjoy live music by Party McFly on Tracey Plaza at City Hall, performing until 5:15 p.m.
Tree Lighting Ceremony
All eyes will be on the spectacular Christmas Tree lighting:
- 5:30 p.m.: Join Mayor Kim Ecklund, Grand Marshal Johnny LaMancuso and event organizer Patrick Smeraldo of Collaborative Children’s Solutions to light the Jamestown Municipal Christmas Tree at City Hall, marking the official start of the holiday season.
The Parade
The Gingerbread & Candyland Holiday Parade steps off at 6 p.m., traveling along Third Street from Porter Avenue to City Hall. This year’s Grand Marshal, Johnny LaMancuso, will lead the parade atop the Toys for Tots float, marking his triumphant return after receiving medical treatment last year.
This year’s theme celebrates the sweetness of the season: Gingerbread and Candyland. The parade features dozens of groups and floats, including the Toys for Tots Grand Marshal Float, the Jamestown Fire Department, Blue Star Mothers NY4, local businesses like Tim Horton’s, Ed Shults, and The Resource Center, as well as community organizations such as the Southern Chautauqua Federal Credit Union, Jamestown Noon Rotary, and the Jamestown Tarp Skunks. This is just a sampling of the festive participants bringing the streets to life.
Due to recent snow days, the Jamestown High School Marching Band will not be performing this year. The band was unable to rehearse but looks forward to returning next year to be part of the festivities.
Sensory Zone
To ensure inclusivity, the parade will include a Sensory Zone, located on Third Street between Lafayette and Washington. This quiet space is designed for individuals sensitive to loud sounds. Parade-goers are encouraged to help maintain a peaceful environment by limiting excessive noise in this area.
A Grand Finale
The evening wraps up with a dazzling fireworks display and a special visit from Santa Claus, capping off an unforgettable day of holiday cheer.
Can’t Attend in Person?
The parade will be broadcast live on CCS-TV starting at 5 p.m., and streamed on CCS-TV.com, Roku, YouTube, and the CCS-TV mobile app. The app is available for download on Apple App Store and Google Play Store by searching “CCS-TV.”
Bundle up, grab your holiday spirit, and join us for a magical celebration of community, creativity, and Christmas cheer in Jamestown!
