MARBLEHEAD — Tough times deserve tough measures. But these activities won't hurt at all.
In the face of a flagging economy, the traditional Marblehead Christmas Walk, designed to increase business for local retailers, will be extended throughout the month. The fun kicks off on Thursday, said Ann Marie Casey of the Chamber of Commerce, with "holiday shopping preview parties," including open houses, decorations and sales.
"There will be a whole group of activities that weekend," said Barbara Waldman of the Marblehead Toy Store. Cheese and crackers will be offered to entice the adults into her shop — cookies for the kids. Saturday and Sunday will be set aside for raffles, with a toy circus and a toy pirate ship as the grand prizes.
"Christmas Walk has always been a fun thing," Waldman said.
This is the 38th annual celebration, Casey said. The participating 80 stores will have flags out. Strolling musicians, carols and face-painting will help set the holiday mood. She admits that she's been busy with wreaths, garlands and other decorations over the past several days.
After Christmas Walk weekend, this Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, more events are planned for the next two weekends, including trolley rides, bagpipers, hayrides and various other entertainments.
The usual highlights will also be included with Santa and Mrs. Claus making their annual arrival at the State Street Landing 9:30 a.m. on Saturday. The Christmas parade begins from there at 11:30 a.m., Casey said.
Santa will ride up State Street, taking a left on Washington, proceeding past Abbot Hall, taking a left on Atlantic Avenue and ending his journey at the Star of the Sea Church. With dancers, balloons and goody bags Casey said, "Expect 500 kids."
On Friday night at 7 p.m. at Abbot Hall, the town Christmas tree will come to light, decorated with energy-saving LED lights for the first time. Despite the fact that twice as many lights will be used, Casey expects big savings on the electric bill. The same lights will festoon the Old Town House and the Landing.
For her part, Waldman is glad for the attention. Black Friday weekend, after Thanksgiving, tends to draw shoppers to the big malls, she said. It's over the coming days that many small retailers like the Marblehead Toy Store hope to make big sales.
"This is the month we're hoping will do it for us," an optimistic Waldman said.
"My message is," Casey said, "if you can buy it here — buy it here!"
Among the major sponsors for the Christmas Walk are Marblehead Savings Bank, Comcast and Coldwell Banker.
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