This year, Homewood hosted its 22nd annual Holiday Open House. Local businesses kept their doors open later than normal to display new holiday decor and merchandise to new and returning customers.
This season, downtown Homewood boasts holiday decor from every shop window and lamppost. Lights illuminate 18th Street South, and a tree welcomes visitors to the center of the small-town square.
In an article by the Homewood Star, Meredith Drennen, Homewood Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, expressed her excitement for the open house.
“It’s a great way to get excited for the holidays,” Drennen said.
Stores offered discounts as well as food and drinks to customers.
Dory Williams attended the holiday event with friends and remarked on the fun experience
“My experience at the Homewood holiday open house was filled with yummy food and good shopping. I had a great time spending time with my friends while getting into the Christmas spirit,” Williams exclaimed.
Lizzie Willcox was another attendee and participant in the festivities. She said she enjoyed her time getting in the holiday spirit and that the event encouraged her to shop at more local businesses.
“It made me really want to go back and get Christmas presents and birthday presents at At Home, The Cottage Basket and Little Professor,” Willcox said.
Willcox also mentioned how much she enjoyed the food that was catered to the event. She said it reminded her of home-cooked Thanksgiving meals, which she misses as a college student. Willcox stated that the event made her want to look further into the catering business.
The Cottage Basket seemed to be a hit of the evening. They sell gift items, home décor, and some adult and children’s clothing.
Williams and Willcox both commented on the lovely decor in stores like The Cottage Basket. Willcox particularly enjoyed the pastel holiday decor in the store.
“I loved going to the pink tulip and the cottage basket. They were both decorated for Christmas, had great items and service, and had refreshments and snacks,” Williams said.
The event included free trolley rides and photos with Santa. These features make it the ideal activity for families in the Homewood area. The open house also featured the annual lighting of the Homewood star. This lighting has become a historic tradition over the years.
Williams said she will return to the Holiday Open House next year and encourages others to do the same.
“I would definitely recommend going back to the open house. It was a great break from school to just let loose and have fun while also eating some great food and doing some great shopping,” said Williams.
The town of Homewood will have their Merry and Bright 2022 Christmas Parade on Tuesday, Dec. 6. The parade will start at 6:30 p.m. according to the Homewood Parks and Recreation website.
