A man wearing a Santa Claus hat makes his way toward the Christmas tree at this year’s 25th annual Winter Holiday Stroll. As he heads down Main Street, he joins a sea of thousands gathered in the heart of downtown Nashua to watch on as the tree is lit.

NASHUA — New attractions such as axe-throwing, carnival games and first-time performers who will join many returning acts are just a few of the dozens upon dozens of activities on tap for this year’s edition of the annual Winter Holiday Stroll.

Back after a two-year hiaitus due to the pandemic, the stroll, which runs from 5-10 p.m. throughout Downtown Nashua, will also feature free shuttle buses to give visitors a parking option.

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Nashua’s Winter Holiday Stroll, back after a two-year pandemic hiaitus, is almost here

WHEN: 5 – 10 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 26

WHERE: Throughout downtown Nashua. Candlelit procession begins at City Hall, ends at Library Hill

HOW MUCH: Stroll itself is free. Prices vary among vendors, stores, restaurants

SHUTTLES: Free shuttle buses from Rivier University and Holman Stadium will run in 10-minute loops from 4 to 10:30 p.m.

MORE: Go to www.downtownnashua.org, click on the link to the stroll page.

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=A map and schedule of events, times and locations is attached. A small number of time or location changes are possible. The map and grid is also forthcoming at www.downtownnashua.org.

In the neighborhood of 30 performers have signed up for the stroll, according to Great American Downtown exeuctive director Carolyn Walley.

“We’ll definitely have all kinds of entertainment, I think we’re up to about 30 performers,” Walley said

Those wishing to participate in the candlelit procession, the traditional kick-off to the evening’s activities, should gather in front of City Hall between 4:30 and 5 p.m. Candles and programs will be distributed at that time. The procession, led by a fire engine and featuring Christmas carols and other holiday songs, steps off at 5 p.m., and ends on Library Hill next to the Hunt Building, where a brief tree-lighting ceremony will take place.

Certainly among the most popular venues will be Santa’s Village, where kids of all ages can say hi to Santa and Mrs. Claus and, for the older “kids,” soak up the nostalgic atmosphere.

Out front in the parking lot, children can board a train for a ride around the area. Somewhere along the way, they are likely to catch a glimpse of Mickey and Minnie Mouse. Those familiar with more contemporary characters may encounter Elsa and Anna of “Frozen” fame.

Walley summed it up: “We definitely have a lot going on.”

Dean Shalhoup may be reached at 594-1256 or dshalhoup@nashuatelegraph.com.

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