As a little girl, I always looked forward to Christmas in Albert Lea. Santa Claus would wave proudly over Lou Rich. The lake would ice over; the whole town would become a winter wonderland. Garland would be strung all around downtown with beautiful lights welcoming in the holiday season. I still love celebrating Christmas in our small town. Our family always drive through the neighborhoods slowly to enjoy all of the colorful Christmas lights. On our way home we slowly drive through our downtown, enjoying all of the business window displays.
This time of year I especially love the Holiday Bazaar downtown in the old bank building. Vendors with handcrafted items fill the bank building with their crafts. Soaps, cupcakes, jewelry, doll clothes, Barbie clothes, salsas and other wonderful home businesses fill the area. Our kids enjoy the face painting and visiting with Santa to tell him their Christmas list. The Community Brass Band will be on hand to play all our holiday favorites, and Carolers will also be there to help us celebrate the holidays.
My very favorite part of the whole event is the Horse Drawn Trolley Ride. This year the trolley rides are free courtesy of Country Inn & Suites, Albert Lea, MN. Thank you for sponsoring this event allowing everyone to enjoy this unique treat.
Does your small hometown celebrate Christmas? I would love to know the unique things your town does to bring in the holidays. Our family wants to personally invite you to Albert Lea to enjoy our Holiday Bazaar on Broadway. Enjoy the free trolley ride, get your face painted, purchase handcrafted, one-of-a-kind items and enjoy specials at the stores downtown.
The bank building is located downtown on Broadway right next to The Interchange Wine & Bistro. That’s right! Enjoy the Bazaar, then go next door and enjoy a delicious class of crafted beer, delicious food, and beautiful atmosphere.
We’ll see you downtown. I’ll be the one on the trolley ride singing Christmas Carols the loudest.