Wye Road Bridge lighting, Santa arrival herald Bath’s holiday season

5:30 p.m.

A favorite Thanksgiving tradition in Bath is the annual Wye Road Bridge lighting and Santa arrival, courtesy of the Bath Business Association.

This free family-friendly event takes place at the Wye Road Bridge, near The Bake Shop in Ghent, on the Friday after Thanksgiving, Nov. 25, at 5:30 p.m.

“This is the 18th year for what has become a Bath holiday tradition,” said Nancy Fay, BBA co-president, event chair and owner of The Bake Shop in Ghent. “It’s one way our 84 BBA members ‘give back’ to the community, by planning, organizing and contributing to this event.”

The section of Wye Road along the bridge takes on the look of a winter fairyland with garlands and lights draping the bridge and a decorated Christmas tree ready to light up during the evening festivities. Caroling from the porch of The Bake Shop will precede the tree lighting, which occurs around the same time Santa Claus arrives in his “sleigh.” Santa then leads children to his post under the tent in the parking lot, where he’ll spend the evening listening to everyone’s holiday wishes.

Gift bags stuffed with holiday-themed goodies will be handed out to the younger attendees. Holiday cookies, courtesy of Vaughn & Company Salon, along with coffee and hot chocolate, compliments of The Bake Shop in Ghent, will be available under another tent, while a third tent will be the site for children’s crafts and activities.

The bridge lighting and Santa arrival is an effort of the BBA to promote the unique and distinctive businesses in Bath, especially during this time of the year.

“It’s our way to encourage residents to enhance their holiday shopping experience by shopping locally,” said Konstand. “It’s a great way to support the businesses of your friends and neighbors right here in Bath.”

For details about the Wye Road Bridge Lighting, visit bathbusinessassociation.com or call 330-666-3347. ∞