The Vernon Grant Exhibit and Outdoor Art Festival
Sponsored by the Culture & Heritage Museums
Dec. 1 - 4, Thur – Fri (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM); Sat (10:00 AM – 7:00 PM); Sun (12 Noon – 5:00 PM)
Center for the Arts – Dalton Gallery – 121 E. Main Street
Vernon Grant enjoyed drawing Santa Claus more than any other object. This year’s special exhibit celebrates Grant’s 80th season of illustrating Santa and his world famous gnome sidekicks. Over 50 of Vernon’s whimsical images will include the annual Chairman’s Choice selections, along with 25 years of MYCO’s popular Vernon Grant ornaments, artfully framed and displayed with the original cards and magazine covers that inspired the annual reproductions. Grant’s outdoor banner exhibit will be featured on the streets of Old Town all month long.
Gingerbread House Contest, Display and Silent Auction
Sponsored by First Citizens Bank in partnership with Johnson & Wales University
Dec. 1 – 4 Thur-Fri (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM); Sat (10:00 AM – 7:00 PM); Sun (12 Noon – 5:00 PM)
Center for the Arts – 121 E. Main Street
See gingerbread houses created by professional chefs, amateurs, and youth. Cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award by donating $1 to the Arts Council of York County. Ballot box on site. Awards announced Saturday at noon at the Center for the Arts. Participate in a silent auction until Sunday at 3 PM to buy your favorite house that will keep for years!
The Lighting of the Village – Opening Ceremonies
Sponsored by Founders Federal Credit Union
Dec. 1, Thurs (7:00 PM – 7:45 PM)
Main Street at Elk Avenue
This year’s theme is “Angels Among Us.” Spectacular entertainment that features an aerial act, the Winthrop University ChristmasVille RockHettes, the Rinehart Saxaphone Trio, music by South Pointe HS Stallion Corral Concert Choir, Oakdale Baptist Church Children’s Choir and much more as we join together to light the village! Entertainment projected on large screen above the stage. (relocated to Freedom Center gym on Caldwell Street in case of severe weather)
Art Market & Open Artists Studios
Sponsored by Wells Fargo
Dec. 2 – 4, Fri (4:00 PM – 8:00 PM); Sat (10:00 AM – 7:00 PM); Sun (12 Noon – 5:00 PM)
Palmetto Room – 135 E. Main Street (enter at Old Town Bistro); Center for the Arts – 121 E. Main; Gettys Art Center – 201 E. Main
Regional artists are located in this beautiful Palmetto ballroom down the hall from Old Town Bistro, while local artists open their studios and have work for sale in the buildings listed above.
Holiday Market Place
Sponsored Dixie Home Crafters
Dec. 2 – 4, Fri (4:00 PM – 8:00 PM); Sat (10:00 AM – 7:00 PM); Sun (12 Noon – 5:00 PM)
The Palmetto Room Tent Annex - 135 E. Main Street or enter tent from White Street parking lot
A wonderful gift village with unique presents for the entire family, includes ChristmasVille souvenirs and Vernon Grant merchandise. Look for the red and white striped tent.
Reindeer Romp 5K Run
Sponsored by Piedmont Medical Center
Dec. 3, Sat (9:00 AM – 10:00 AM)
Main Street at Elk Avenue
Join Piedmont Medical Center for the 4th annual Reindeer Romp 5K that begins and ends in historic Old Town The run ends with a flurry of “snow” and post race ChristmasVille activities. Pre-register online at www.sportoften.com. and pay only $20, or pay $25 the day of the event. Registration includes race T-shirt. Participants may report to registration tent on Main near Wells Fargo (113 E. Main Street) beginning at 7:00 AM to pick up their Piedmont Medical packet. (Rain or shine)
Horse Drawn Carriage Rides
Sponsored by Brownlee Jewelers
Dec. 3 – 4, Sat (11:00 AM – 7:00 PM); Sun (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Main Street
Purchase tokens at red & white striped information tent. $5 per person. (cancelled for steady rain or severe weather)
Strolling Dickens Carolers
Dec. 3 – 4, Sat – Sun (various times)
Main Street
Nothing can get you in the holiday spirit like the sound of Christmas carolers as they stroll Main Street dressed in beautiful Dickens costumes. (rain/severe weather location at the Art Market and Holiday Market Place - 135 E. Main Street)
ChristmasVille Grand Finale with the Winthrop University ChristmasVille RockHettes
Sponsored by The Herald
Coordinated by the Winthrop University Department of Theatre and Dance
Dec.4, Sun (5:00 PM – 5:30 PM)
Village Square Stage at Main and Caldwell Streets
Winthrop University ChristmasVille RockHettes will close out the festivities in Broadway style along with “Angels Among Us” performance by Westminster Presbyterian Church Interpretive Dancers plus a special appearance by Santa and the Performing Arts Academy of the Carolinas. ( rain/severe weather location: Freedom Center gym – Caldwell Street entrance)
CHRISTMAS IN THE VILLAGE
Angels Among Us Angel Tree
Sponsored by Agape Senior Foundation
Dec. 1 – 4, Thur – Fri (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM); Sat (10:00 AM - 5:00 PM); Sun (12 Noon – 5:00 PM)
147 E. Main Street
“Angels Among Us” comes to life through the Angel Tree where you are invited to honor and remember those family and friends who have touched your life in extraordinary ways. For a $10 donation, you may name an angel ornament for an angel in your life. Proceeds will benefit SC seniors and hospice patients in financial need. You are encouraged to also submit a photo of your angel, either a digital file or a copy of a photo may be mailed to Kelly Stone, Agape Hospice of the Piedmont, 1317 Ebenezer Road, Rock Hill, SC 29732. Please email digital files to kstone@agapesenior.com. For more information and to pre-order your angels, please visit http://www.agapeseniorfoundation.com. Ornaments will also be available during ChristmasVille.
Vernon Grant’s Santas – People’s Choice Contest
Sponsored by the Arts Council of York County
Dec. 1 - 4, Thur – Fri (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM); Sat (10:00 AM-7:00 PM); Sun (12 Noon – 5:00 PM)
Center for the Arts - 121 E. Main Street
Chairman John Rinehart has selected twelve of Vernon Grant’s famed Santa images to be displayed for the public to vote and select their favorite. The People’s Choice Award will be announced at the festival finale and the image will be used for a souvenir available at ChristmasVille 2012. Voting concludes Sunday at 3 PM. A drawing will be held at the Grand Finale. One participant will win an original piece of autographed Vernon Grant artwork. You do not have to be present to win.
Name the Gnome Contest
Coordinated by the Vernon Grant Committee
Dec. 1 - 4, Thur – Fri (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM); Sat (10:00 AM - 7:00 PM); Sun (12 Noon – 5:00 PM)
Center for the Arts - 121 E. Main Street
Find the location of 28 Vernon Grant gnomes in storefronts up and down Main Street. Five of the gnomes will be numbered this year. Come up with a name for one of the five gnomes or all of them and drop them in the ballot box. Participants will be entered into a drawing to win Vernon Grant merchandise. Pick up your ballot form and map at the Center for the Arts.
The Gnome Tree
Coordinated by Mount Gallant Elementary Art Class
Center for the Arts – 121 E. Main Street
Dec. 1 - 4, Thur – Fri (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM); Sat (10:00 AM-7:00 PM); Sun (12 Noon – 5:00 PM)
Come see a Christmas tree filled with gnome faces. These ornaments were designed by Ms. Gregory’s 3rd grade class. Students made each gnome completely out of recycled materials in honor of Vernon Grant.
Miniature Dollhouse & Room-box Display
Coordinated by Miniature Mentors of South Charlotte
Dec. 1-4, Thur (4 PM – 8 PM); Fri (10 AM – 6 PM); Sat (11 AM – 8 PM); Sun (12 Noon – 4 PM)
The Gettys Art Center Lobby, 201 E. Main Street
For the last century, dollhouses have primarily been the domain of children but their collection and crafting has been revitalized over the last 20 – 30 years as a popular hobby for many adults, both men and women. Come see a display of intriguing handcrafted dollhouses, room-boxes, vignettes and their miniature contents to delight, amaze and inspire you. Cast your vopte for the People’s Choice Award by donating $1 to a children’s charity. Ballot box on site. Voting concludes Sunday at 3 PM.
The 6th Annual Winthrop University Silent Art Auction at Gallery Up
Coordinated by Gallery Up
Dec. 1-3, Thur (10 AM – 6:00 PM); Fri (10:00 AM -6:00 PM); Sat. (11:00 AM – 3 PM; Reception/Final Bidding: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM)
2nd Floor Gettys Art Center – 201 E. Main Street
Come place your bids on one-of-a kind artwork by Winthrop students, faculty, and alumni at Gallery Up’s 6th Annual Winthrop Silent Art Auction! The Silent Art Auction will include an eclectic selection of art in a variety of mediums at a variety of prices. Works will include photography, paintings, printmaking, jewelry and sculpture. Bidding opens on December 1 at 10:00 AM and closes on December 3 at 3:00 PM with the silent auction reception from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM on December 3.
Deck the Hall Holiday Concert
Coordinated by the Rock Hill Parks, Recreation and Tourism
Dec. 1, Thur (6:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Old Town Amphitheater at City Hall – 144 E. Black Street
Bundle up and join us for a holiday concert and sing-a-long featuring performances by the Oakdale SPICE Club, Saluda Trail Middle School Jazz Band and the Finley Road Fifth Graders. (severe weather: cancelled for rain)
Holiday Sing-Along
Dec. 1, Thur (8:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
McHale’s On Main - 135 E. Main Street
Come join in the fun at this quaint Irish pub. Traditional Irish fare for lunch, dinner and late night. Live music Thur - Sat beginning at 10:00 PM. (cover charge)
“Support our Troops”
Coordinated by the Culture & Heritage Museums
Dec. 2-4, Fri (4:00 PM – 8:00 PM); Sat (10:00 AM - 6:00 PM); Sun (12 Noon – 5:00 PM)
Corner of Main Street and Caldwell Street
Purchase a Vernon Grant GI Joe Christmas card to support our troops. For the cost of $1, you can add a greeting to the card and leave it. Volunteers will collect the cards and take care of shipping the cards overseas to show our troops your support.
The Rock Hill Christmas Parade
Coordinated by the Rock Hill Christmas Parade Committee
Dec. 2, Fri (6:30 PM – 9:00 PM)
Oakland Avenue – White Street – Main Street
A lighted parade celebrating the Christmas season beginning at Winthrop University on Oakland Avenue and ending on Main Street. The parade includes floats, bands, cars and walking units.
Enjoy ChristmasVille food vendors in the Black Street parking lot with additional entertainment on Main Street before and after the parade. (cancelled only for extreme weather)
Reindeer Romp Entertainment by Eddie Mabry Talent
Dec. 3, Sat (8:30 AM)
Main Street at Elk Avenue
A special dance show to kick off the Reindeer Romp 5K!
Ice Skating at Polar Bear Park
Sponsored by Rock Hill Coca Cola Bottling Company
Dec. 3-4, Sat (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM); Sun (12 Noon – 5:00 PM)
Old Town Amphitheater at City Hall – 144 E. Black Street
Join Freddy the Polar Bear at our outdoor ice skating rink and skate your way into the holiday spirit. Tickets are $5 for all ages. Fee includes your ice skate rentals. (rain location: see website)
Miniature Golf in a Christmas Tree Forest
Dec. 3 - 5, Sat (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM); Sun (12 Noon – 5:00 PM)
Caldwell Street near Main Street
Play 18 holes of miniature golf in a Christmas tree forest decorated with Vernon Grant gnomes. Tickets are $3 for all ages. (rain/severe weather location: Freedom Center gym)
Village Square Stage
Sponsored by Fast Signs of Rock Hill
Dec. 3, Sat (10:30 AM – 5 PM)
Main Street near Caldwell Street
10:30 AM Jami Masters School of Dance – Dance Performance
11:00 AM Pickles da Clown Comedy & Magic Show
11:30 AM Just Dancin’ Dance Performance
12 Noon Sullivan Dance Studio Dance Performance
12:30 PM Studio 1 Talent Dance Performance
1:00 PM How the Grinch Stole ChristmasVille
1:30 PM Eddie Mabry Talent Dance Performance
2:20 PM Cappuccino Christmas Vocal Performance
2:30 PM How the Grinch Stole ChristmasVille
3:00 PM New Attitude Performing Arts Dance Performance
3:30 PM Just-N-Cat Vocal Duo
3:45 PM Jennings Brackett Vocal Soloist
4:00 PM Dance by Sherri Dance Performance
4:30 PM Performing Arts Academy of the Carolinas
Elk Avenue Stage
Sponsored by WRHI AM/ FM and Interstate 107
Dec. 3, Sat (11:00 AM – 4:30 PM)
Main Street and Elk Avenue – Lower Level Plaza
11:00 AM Larne Elementary School Soaring Singers
11:30 AM PAKS Martial Arts Performance and Lessons
12 Noon YPA Dance Team & Cheerleaders
12:30 PM Carolina Dance Academy Dance Performance
1:00 PM Rosewood Elementary Chorus Group
1:30 PM Northside Elementary School of the Arts Christmas Program
2:20 PM Bale & Smyth Company Rock Band
3:00 PM Darryl Evans Martial Arts Performance
3:30 PM Breanna Johansen Vocal Soloist
3:45 PM Peter E. Guarascio Vocal Soloist
4:00 PM Miller Street Dance Performance
Old Town Amphitheater Stage
Dec. 3, Sat (10:30 AM – 4:00 PM)
Old Town Amphitheater at City Hall 144 E. Black Street
10:30 AM Westminster Catawba Christian School
11:00 AM Dancercise with Ric – Ricky Potts Instructor
11:30 AM South Pointe High School Band
12 Noon South Pointe High School Chorus
12:30 PM Rock Hill North Children’s Center
1:00 PM Oakdale Baptist Church Children’s Choir
1:30 PM Saluda Trail Middle School Show Choir
2:00 PM Tuba Christmas
2:30 PM Tuba Christmas
3:00 PM Peter E. Guarascio & Friends
3:30 PM Freedom Temple Worship & Arts Ministry
4:00 PM Mona Bailey & Parks Bailey Vocal Duo
Johnny Peers and the Muttville Comix
Dec. 3, Sat (11:30 AM – 12 Noon; 1:30 PM – 2:00 PM; 2:30 PM – 3:00 PM)
Grassy area on Main Street across from Wachovia Bank - 113 E. Main Street
From appearances on the David Letterman Show to Seinfeld to The White House, this hilarious slapstick show is a comedy act that has warmed the hearts of millions. The show stars mostly dogs rescued from shelters or pounds, like Daphne, the worlds only skate boarding Basset Hound; Squeaky, the ladder climbing Fox Terrier and Mr. Pepe, who only responds to commands in Spanish. A fabulous show that will have you howling!!
Ferris Wheel
Dec. 3-4, Sat (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM); Sun (12 Noon – 5 PM)
Main Street
Look over ChristmasVille from 40 feet in the air! Be sure and bring your camera to capture the spirit of ChristmasVille. Tickets are $3 or free with a Winter Carnival wristband or Snow Village wristband. The Bungee Jump also available on Saturday at the Winter Carnival.
Holidays Rock!
Coordinated by the York County Library Teen Advisory Board
Dec. 3, Sat (11:30 AM – 1:00 PM)
York County Main Library – 138 Black Street
Drop in and enjoy video games, including Rock Band, Guitar Hero, and Xbox 360 games with Kinect! Participants can also make duct tape Christmas ornaments! For students in grades 6th-12th.
The Village Square Stage
Sponsored by Fast Signs of Rock Hill
Dec. 4, Sun (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Main Street near Caldwell Street
1:00 PM David’s Magic Show
1:30 PM Julie’s Fancy Feet Dance Performance
2:00 PM How the Grinch Stole ChristmasVille
2:30 PM Kidz Dance Co. Dance Performance
3:00 PM How the Grinch Stole ChristmasVille
3:30 PM Encore Dance - Dance Performance
4:00 PM 3-N-1 Three Voices One Sound
5:00 PM Grand Finale with the Winthrop University ChristmasVille RockHettes
Elk Avenue Stage
Sponsored by WRHI AM/FM and Interstate 107
Dec. 4, Sun (1:00 PM – 4:45 PM)
Main Street and Elk Avenue – Lower Level Plaza
1:00 PM Pickles da Clown Comedy & Magic Show
1:30 PM Rock Hill High School Dance Team & Cheerleaders
2:00 PM Mallory Stanley Vocal Soloist
2:15 PM Isabella Riggs Vocal Soloist
2:30 PM South Pointe High School Dance Team & Cheerleaders
3:00 PM SMS Dance Team Dance Performance
3:30 PM David’s Magic Show
4:00 PM Rawlinson Road Middle School & Northwestern High School Performance Ensemble
David’s Magic Show
Dec. 4, Sun (1:00 PM at Village Square Stage; 3:30 PM at Elk Ave Stage)
Unbelievable magic show for all ages featuring live doves, bunnies and a real monkey!
Holiday Hounds Costume Contest and Promenade
Sponsored by ArrowPointe Federal Credit Union
Dec. 4, Sun (pre-registration recommended; on-site at 2:30 PM) Judging/Promenade (3:00 PM)
Grassy Area next to Wells Fargo – 113 E. Main Street
Dogs compete for great prizes for best holiday costume, best Dickens costume, best gnome costume, best pair (owner and dog), best personality, best in show. All dogs must be on leash. Pre-registration forms available at www.ChristmasVilleRockHill.com. (cancelled for rain or severe weather)
Christmas Book Sale
Coordinated by the “Friends of the Library”
Dec. 4, Sun (3:30 PM – 5:00 PM)
York County Library – 138 E. Black Street
Do some Christmas shopping for the book lovers on your list! Choose from gift-quality, gently used books, including holiday titles, children’s books, cookbooks and more, all at bargain prices.
GNOME ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN
The Main Street Children’s Museum Celebrates ChristmasVille!
Coordinated by the Culture & Heritage Museums
Main Street Children’s Museum – 133 E. Main Street
Dec. 1 - 4, Thur – Sat (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM); Sun (12 Noon – 5 PM)
Celebrate ChristmasVille with free admission for adults at the Main Street Children’s Museum! Children must be accompanied by an adult. During the Museum’s regular operating hours, special holiday activities such as a “Gnome in the Home” scavenger hunt will be offered. $5 per child; $3 per CHM member child. Children younger than one free and adults are free. Adults not accompanied by a child, will be offered a brief guided tour as staff is available.
Telephone Calls to Santa
Coordinated by the Comporium Pioneers
Dec. 1, 3 - 4, Thurs (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM); Sat (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM); Sun (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
Comporium Telephone Museum – 117 Elk Avenue
Come visit the Comporium Telephone Museum and meet Mrs. Claus and place a phone call to Santa on the RED HOTLINE phone to the North Pole. Candy canes will be given out upon exit. If you happen to run into Santa on Main Street, he’s carrying his cell phone!
Elves in the Shelves
Dec. 1, Thur (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
York County Library – 138 E. Black Street
Join the merry elves and gnomes at York County Library for a holiday hullabaloo! Activities include music by the Magikal Minstrel, appearances by BEAMER, the library mascot, face painting, letters to Santa, free children’s crafts presented by our community partners, and more! All ages. No registration required.
Roving Entertainers
Dec. 2 - 4, Fri (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM); Sat (various); Sun (various)
Main Street
From Grant the Gnome, Freddy the Polar Bear, Pickles da Clown to stilt walkers, and balloon artists, there is always fun and interaction along Main Street during ChristmasVille.
Winter Carnival
Sponsored by York County Natural Gas
Dec. 3, Sat (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Main Street near Dave Lyle Blvd
A winter carnival with multiple inflatable slides, rides, and games for children, along with a bungee jump and holiday characters including Grant the Gnome. $5 wristband gets you into all Saturday rides and includes Ferris wheel. Purchase wristbands at red & white striped info tent on Main Street. (relocated to Freedom Center Gym for steady rain or severe weather)
Santa’s Toy Workshop
Coordinated by Lowe’s Home Improvement
Dec. 3 – 4, Sat (10:00 AM – 12 Noon); Sun (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM)
Upper Plaza at the Old Town Amphitheater, City Hall above Ice Rink, 144 E. Black Street
Parents will assist children in preparation of a “Take-Away” Project. Ages 6-9 will construct a wooden toy kit. Ages 3 – 5 will make crafts. Santa and his gnomes will be there too! Donations to Toys for Happiness are appreciated especially if you take photographs with Santa! (relocated to Freedom Center Gym in case of bad weather)
Trackless Train Rides
Sponsored by TD Bank
Dec. 3 - 4, Sat (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM); Sun (12 Noon - 5:00 PM)
Polar Express Depot – 116 E. Main Street
Old fashioned train rides with a conductor along Main and Hampton Streets. Depot located in front of the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce. (cancelled for steady rain/severe weather)
Marshmallow Roast
Coordinated by Rock Hill Youth Council and Rock Hill Parks, Recreation & Tourism
Dec. 3 - 4, Sat (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM); Sun (Noon – 5:00 PM)
Ice Skating Rink, Old Town Amphitheater at City Hall, 144 Black Street
Roast marshmallows, make s’mores, and drink hot chocolate by a campfire. Guaranteed to warm the spirits and the toes of chilly ice skaters and ChristmasVille visitors. $1 hot chocolate, 50¢ marshmallows, and $2 s’mores.
Children’s Christmas Tea with Mrs. Claus and Santa's Elves
Coordinated by the Woman’s Club of Rock Hill
607 Aiken Avenue (corner of Aiken Avenue & College Avenue)
Dec. 3, Sat (12:30 PM)
Enjoy a visit with Mrs. Claus and Santa's Elves, delicious homemade savories and sweets, favors and musical entertainment (Children need to be accompanied by one or more adults). Sugar Plum Boutique featuring Christmas decorations, gifts and homemade treats, open one hour before and after the Tea. Advanced reservations required: 803-328-8888 or 803-366-9763. $15 adults; $10 children.
Santa’s Great Gnome Awakening and Jingle Bell Parade
Dec. 3- 4, Sat (2:00 PM; 4:00 PM); Sun (4:00 PM)
Woolworth Window – 135 E. Main Street
Join Santa, Mrs. Claus and Mother Goose in an interactive show with real live gnomes at the official Vernon Grant “Gnome Home.” Skit will be followed by a Jingle Bell Parade down Main Street.
A Story with Santa in the Garden
Hosted by the Rock Hill Parks Foundation
Dec. 3 Sat (11:30 AM)
Glencairn Garden Vernon Grant Performance Stage – 725 Crest Street
Come join Santa for holiday fun as he reads “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.” All children will receive complimentary candy canes and reindeer antlers from the Rock Hill Galleria. After the story, children are invited to tell Santa what they want for Christmas while parents are welcome and encouraged to take photographs. While waiting their turn, children and adults alike can enjoy hot chocolate and cookies as well as children's activities provided by Parks, Recreation and Tourism. Free event. (rain location: The Bigger House at 725 Crest Street. Cancelled for severe weather)
How the Grinch Stole ChristmasVille
Dec. 3 - 4, Sat (1:00 PM; 2:30 PM); Sun (2:00 PM; 3:00 PM)
Village Square Stage at Main and Caldwell Street
Back by popular demand! The Grinch interacts with children. Bailey’s original stage parody combines the worlds of Dr. Seuss, Vernon Grant, and Rock Hill’s own ChristmasVille. (rain location: Freedom Center Gym – enter on Caldwell Street)
“Ring – A - Ling” Hand Bell Workshop for Children
Coordinated by First Baptist Church Hand Bell Choir
Dec. 3, Sat (1:00 PM; 1:30 PM & 2:30 PM)
Center for the Arts – 121 E. Main Street
Children ages 3 and up join us for a 20 minute hand bell workshop. At the end of each session, there will be a concert for the parents. A maximum of 30 children at each session. An adult must remain while children attend the workshop.
Cookie and Cupcake Decorating
Dec, 3-4, Sat (3:00 PM – 5:00 PM); Sun (3:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Periwinkle Bakery and Café – 140 E. Main Street at Elk Avenue City Plaza
Choose to decorate either a cookie or a cupcake at this bakery and café for $1 each. Parents need to accompany children please.
Christmas Pony Rides
Dec. 4, Sun (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
Grassy area opposite Wells Fargo
Children can ride Santa’s Christmas ponies. Bring your camera! Grant the Gnome will be available for pictures with his own personal pony!
Snow Village
Sponsored by Family Trust Federal Credit Union and Gala Affairs
Dec. 4, Sun (12 Noon until it melts! Note: last year’s lasted until 4:00 PM)
Gettys Center parking lot on Caldwell Street near Main Street
Twenty tons of real snow covering a children’s play area with holiday characters. Get your wristband at the striped information tent for $5. Limited to children 12 and under. Parents asked to stay outside barricades except at special tot lot for children 5 and under. (cancelled for steady rain/severe weather)
FOOD & MERRIMENT
VIP Sponsor Party
Sponsored by the Old Town Bistro
Dec. 1, Thur (5:30 PM – 7:00 PM)
Invitation only.
Public Reception for the Vernon Grant Exhibit
Coordinated by the Arts Council of York County
Dec. 1, Thur (8:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
Center for the Arts – 121 E. Main Street
A free public reception to celebrate the Vernon Grant Holiday in ChristmasVille Exhibit and vote for the
Vernon Grant’s Santas – People’s Choice Contest. Exhibit runs through December 30 in the Dalton Gallery.
York County High School Art Show Reception
Coordinated by the Arts Council of York County & the Yorkville Artists’ Guild
Dec. 1, Thur (8:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
Center for the Arts – 121 E. Main Street
This annual show is open to all high schools in York County. Cash prizes will be given for Best of Show, first, second and third places as well as honorable mention awards. The exhibit will be on display through December 30.
ChristmasVille Food Court
Dec. 2 – 4, Fri (11:00 AM – 9:00 PM); Sat (8:30 AM – 7:00 PM); Sun (12 Noon – 5:00 PM)
Black Street surface lot off Elk Avenue – across from City Hall and the York County Library
Festive food by unique vendors in time for the City of Rock Hill Christmas Parade! Menu sampling: old fashioned kettle corn, hot dogs, BBQ, fish and chips, turkey legs, funnel cakes and more! Several vendors will serve breakfast items on Saturday morning beginning at 8:30 AM! (cancelled only in extreme weather)
Victorian Tea
Dec. 2 & 4, Fri (1:00 PM); Sun (4:00 PM)
Woman’s Club of Rock Hill - 607 Aiken Avenue
Traditional English Tea in historic Armstrong-Maudlin House, with carolers and servers in Victorian attire. Sugar Plum Boutique featuring Christmas decorations, gifts and homemade treats, open one hour before and after each of the Teas. Advanced reservations required (no tickets will be issued). Call #803-328-8888, #803-366-9763. - $20.
A Taste of Christmas Cookie Walk
Dec. 2 - 3, Fri (4:30 PM – 7:30 PM); Sat (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM)
First Presbyterian Church - 234 E. Main Street
Come fill a goody box full of your favorite sweet and savory seasonal treats that will surely bring the Spirit of Christmas to one and all. $6 per box. Whole cakes, pies, and desserts will also be on sale along with homemade canned goods.
Souper Supper
Dec. 2, Fri (4:30 PM - 7:00 PM);
Episcopal Church of Our Saviour – 144 Caldwell Street - corner of White and Oakland Ave
Enjoy our traditional souper supper dinner: homemade soups, muffins, coffee and hot chocolate while you wait for the parade. (rain location inside church parish hall)
Restaurant Entertainment
Dec. 2 - 3, Fri (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM); Sat (5:00PM – 8:00 PM)
The following entertainers will be performing at one of the Village Eateries listed below: The Christmas Carolers, Catherine Allen, Jennings Brackett, Cappuccino Christmas, Peter E. Guarascio, Justin Norwood, Breanna Johansen, Isabella Riggs, Mona Bailey & Parks Bailey.
Village Eateries
- Citizen Corners Fine Food & Spirits – 157 E. Main - Located in the historic Citizen Bank building at the corner of Main and Caldwell Streets. Upscale lunch and dinner. Brunch on Sat/Sun.
- Erin’s Restaurant – 123 Elk Avenue – Fresh - Local - Organic: The way food should be. Erin shops area farmers markets for the freshest local and organic ingredients used in the upscale home style items on her changing menu. Open for dinner and Sunday Brunch.
- Hampton Street Café – 140 E. Main Street - Located on the corner of East Main and Hampton Street in Downtown Rock Hill, the Hampton Street Café offers classic Southern Cuisine and ambiance in a casual and intimate setting.
- Kinch’s Restaurant – 123 Elk Ave - Breakfast and lunch featuring Southern style cooking, sandwiches and salads. Mon-Fri. Open Saturday for festival. Closed Sunday.
- McHale’s Pub – 122 E. Main - Lunch, dinner, late night. Traditional Irish fare along with sandwiches and salads. Live music
- Old Town Bistro – 135 E. Main – breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch featuring Greek, Italian, American foods. Home of the historic Civil Rights lunch counter.
- Periwinkle Bakery and Café– 140 E. Main at Elk Avenue City Plaza – The café and bakery serves breakfast, lunch, baked goods and custom decorated cakes inside or on the outdoor patio. Open for dinner during ChristmasVille.
- Thi’s Place on Main – 210 E. Main - Lunch, dinner. Authentic Vietnamese food in charming historic building on Main Street.
Wine and Cheese Reception at the Art Market
Sponsored by Old Town Bistro
Dec. 5, Sat (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
The Palmetto Room – 135 E. Main Street - enter at Old Town Bistro or from the White Street parking lot
Enjoy a free glass of wine while mingling with artists and shopping for art and holiday gifts in the adjacent Holiday Market Place Tent. Cash bar also available. Register to win free prizes!
The Dickens Ball
Dec. 3, Sat (8:00 PM – 12:00 AM )
Center for the Arts – 121 E. Main Street
This is the Grand Ball of them all. Bring yourself back in time, as we dance the evening away. Light refreshments, and cash bar will be available. This is a formal event, with a special performance by The Dickens Ballroom Dancers, music for the evening provided by DJ John Machin and be prepared for the time of you life! Open to the Public. Tickets $10.00 per person, and may be purchased at City of Rock Hill Economic and Urban office at City Hall, Studio 1 Talent or First Citizens Bank on E. Main Street.
Terribly Tacky Christmas Party
Hosted by McHale’s on Main
Dec. 3, Sat (8:30 PM – 10:30 PM)
McHale’s on Main – 122 E. Main Street
Come in your tackiest Christmas sweater for a night of holiday cheer! There will be prizes for the top 3 tackiest outfits. There will be ChristmasVille drink specials and the contest will take place upstairs at 10:00 PM. McHale's will be open for normal hours downstairs.
OLD TOWN TOURS & CULTURAL EVENTS
WUG Artist Talk with Paul Martyka
Coordinated by Winthrop University Galleries
Dec. 1, Thur (11 AM)
Winthrop University, Rutledge Gallery, 701 Oakland Avenue
Artist Paul Martyka discuses his art exhibit in the New Work Faculty Exhibition in the Rutledge Gallery.
The 22nd Annual Winthrop University Holiday Pottery Sale
Dec. 2, Fri (12 Noon – 6:00PM)
Rutledge Building G-10 at Winthrop University, 701 Oakland Avenue
This popular event will feature the works of Winthrop faculty members Jim Connell, Jennifer Mecca, and Paula Smith, and their students. Functional pottery will be available for sale at reasonable prices.
Lighting of the Winthrop Christmas Tree
Hosted by Winthrop University Student Alumni Council
Dec. 2, Fri (6:00 PM – 6:30 PM)
Front Lawn of Tillman Hall at Winthrop University, 701 Oakland Avenue
In 1969 the lighting of the tree at Winthrop became an official Christmas event, and today continues as part of ChristmasVille. The tree lighting ceremony is prior to Rock Hill’s Christmas Parade and provides entertainment and refreshments for the campus and community. Join students, faculty/staff, alumni, and friends for this festive and memorable tradition. PLEASE NOTE: Oakland Ave. will be closed during this event for the parade. (cancelled for steady rain or severe weather)
Senior Choreography Showcase
Dec. 2 – 3, Fri (8:00 PM); Sat (2:00 PM; 8:00 PM)
Johnson Theatre at Winthrop University, 701 Oakland Avenue
Enjoy modern dance works choreographed by senior dance majors, featuring a variety of styles including modern, jazz, hip-hop, ballet, and more. $15 general public/$8 w/Winthrop ID. (803) 323-4014 or purchase on-line at www.winthrop.edu/arts.
Historic Old Town Trolley Tours
Sponsored by Rinehart Realty Corporation
Dec. 3 - 4, Sat (11:00 AM – 5:00 PM); Sun (1:00 PM – 4:30 PM)
Main Street at Elk Avenue
Historic guided tour that highlights Old Town, Winthrop University, The Woman’s Club, Glencairn Garden, and the historic White Home. Trolley leaves Main Street near Elk Avenue approximately every half hour. Look for the Rinehart Realty tent. (cancelled for severe weather)
Historic Guided Walking Tour of Downtown
Dec. 3, Sat (11:00 AM – 12:00 Noon)
113 E. Main Street
Meet tour guide John T. Misskelley in front of Wells Fargo for this one hour walking tour of Main Street. (cancelled for rain or severe weather)
White Home Christmas Tour
Coordinated by Historic Rock Hill
Dec. 3-4, Sat – Sun (3:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
White Home – 358 E. White Street
Don’t miss the White Home decorated in holiday greenery to reflect an 1880’s Christmas season. Refreshments, exhibits, and a gift shop are available. Make a visit to the White Home part of your family’s holiday tradition. Tickets are available at the door and are $6 for adults, $5 for seniors 60 + and $3 for children 5 – 17 yrs.
An Evening of Opera
Coordinated by Winthrop University Department of Music
Dec. 3, Sat (7:30 PM)
Frances May Barnes Recital Hall, 855 Ebenezer Avenue
Join the Department of Music for their Ensemble Series performance of An Evening of Opera directed by faculty member John Fowler. The evening will celebrate operatic music throughout the ages and is sure to usher in the holidays in a grand way.
Service of Lessons and Carols
Dec. 4, Sun (5:30 PM)
Episcopal Church of Our Saviour – 144 Caldwell Street
A traditional Christmas story from the Bible told through songs and readings. Choir, organ music and youth featured.
2011 ChristmasVille Board of Governors
Allan Miller – Board President
John D. Rinehart, Sr. – Festival Chairman
Candy Clapp – Executive Director
Moe Bell
Andrea Cooper
Debbie Garrick
Jane Hayes
Jim Heckle
Debra Heintz
Rocky Miller
Mary Lynn Norton
Andy Shene
David Williams
Serena Williams
2011 Team Leaders
Erica Anderson
Jim Austin
Kelly Bivins
Lisa Blevins
Kim Brock
Kathy Dorton
Michelle Elston
Karen Forbis
Chris Fox
Jessie Freeman
Tom Glenn
Cheri Greene
Meg Griffin
Rollin and Mckenzie Hansen
Jane Hayes
Lauren Jones
Dave Jordan
Frank Keel
Karen Kennedy
Jamilyn Larsen
Tai Magette
Jill Mikels
Pat Murray
Mary Lynn Norton
Patti Panetti
Becky Pryor
Trina Ricks
Ron Russell
Debra Sanchez
Ann Terry
Abbie Townsend
Debbie Turner
Max Watson
Donna Welch
Diane Williams
Joan and Jere Willsey
Amanda Woolwine
Photography Credits: Cindy Grant, Chip Grant, Scott Harke, Zan Maddox, Terry Windell, (anyone else you use)
2011 Presenting Sponsor
Piedmont Medical Center
2011 Official Sponsors
City of Rock Hill in partnership with the Culture & Heritage Museums
Arts Council of York County
Comporium Communications
Harry & Becca Dalton
Old Town Association
Rock Hill Coca Cola Bottling Company
Williams & Fudge, Inc.
WRHI AM/FM & Interstate 107
2011 Signature Title Sponsors
The Art Market
Wells Fargo
The Lighting of the Village
Founders Federal Credit Union
Historic Trolley Tours
Rinehart Realty Corporation
Holiday Market Place
Dixie Home Crafters
Horse Drawn Carriage Rides
Brownlee Jewelers of Rock Hill
Village Square Stage
Fast Signs of Rock Hill
Trackless Train
TD Bank
The Grand Finale
The Herald
2011 Partnered Title Sponsors
ArrowPointe Federal Credit Union
Family Trust Federal Credit Union
First Citizens Bank
Gala Affairs
Old Town Bistro
York County Natural Gas
2011 Angels
Agape Senior Foundation
South Carolina Bank and Trust of the Piedmont
Winthrop University Alumni Association
2011 Santa Banner Sponsors
Beaver Chiropractic and Spinal Rehabilitation
Burkett, Burkett, and Burkett, CPA
Ed and Kim Brock
OrthoCaro Orthodontics
James C. Hardin, III, PLLC
Charlie and Jane Hayes
City Club of Rock Hill
K & L Gates, LLP
Kuttin’ Up
M.B. Kahn Construction Co., Inc.
David Knoble, CPA, PLLC
Guardian Fidelity Mortgage, Inc.
Gregory’s Formal Wear
McHale’s on Main
Jim Paolone – Edward D. Jones Investments
Periwinkle Café & Bakery
People’s Choice Insurance
Tracey Reynolds, Attorney at Law
Studio 1 Talent
York County Regional Chamber of Commerce
2011 ChristmasVille Society
Drums Tire and Battery
Debbie Garrick
The Vernon Grant Committee
Harriet and Martin Goode
Revenflo LLC
Spencer and Spencer
Ann and Vernon Terry
Directions to ChristmasVille from I-77:
Take Dave Lyle Blvd. (exit 79) towards downtown. Go three miles and turn left at White Street or Black Street for parking. Visitor Information: 803-329-5200 or toll free at 800-866-5200.
ChristmasVille™. All rights reserved. Support for this project is provided in part by the City of Rock Hill Accommodations Tax and York County Hospitality Tax and is partially funded by the Arts Council of York County Small Grants Program, which receives funding from the Rock Hill Tourism Commission, the John and Susan Bennett Memorial Arts Fund of the Coastal Community Foundation of SC, the SC Arts Commission and the NEA. Events listed in the guide were accurate at the time of printing. For the most up-to-date listing of events, please see our website at www.ChristmasVilleRockHill.com.
