Crocker Park kicks off holiday season

Sing along with Santa, tree lighting set

Crocker Park in Westlake announced the start of the holiday season with a spectacular array of festive events and activities for the whole family, according to a news release.

From dazzling lights to seasonal shopping and delightful dining experiences, Crocker Park is the ultimate destination to make your holidays magical, the release said.

Guests can kick off the holiday season at 4 p.m., Nov. 18, with the annual Holiday Block Party with the tree lighting ceremony starting at 7 p.m. presented by AmericanGreetings.com in front of the iconic 50-foot holiday tree as organizers will flip the switch and illuminate the night with thousands of twinkling lights, according to the release.

The event will feature live entertainment, a visit from Santa Claus, and so much more as people celebrate the start of the most wonderful time of the year, the release said.

“Crocker Park boasts over 150 shops, including top brands and unique boutiques, making it the perfect destination for finding the ideal gifts for your loved ones,” the release said. “With extended holiday hours, you’ll have more time to explore the beautifully decorated streets and take advantage of the seasonal sales and promotions.

“Foodies will be delighted to discover an array of dining options at Crocker Park. Savor the flavors of the season at our renowned restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy dinner with family or a quick snack while shopping, Crocker Park has something to satisfy every palate.”

Throughout the season, Crocker Park will host a variety of attractions and events, including live music, meet and greets and special promotions to make your holidays truly unforgettable, the release said.

Other events will include:

• Santa’s House from Nov. 18 to Dec. 24. Photos with Santa presented by Stack Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electric

• Santa’s Sleigh presented by Lake Ridge Academy

• Christmas Towne holiday décor and gifts

• Express Train presented by Serpentini of Westlake from Nov. 19 to Dec. 31

• 50-foot Christmas Tree Light Shows from Nov. 18 to Dec. 31

• Ice skating rink presented by Cleveland Monsters and Ohio Hockey Project from Nov. 18 to Feb. 19

• Snowflake Garden presented by Devon Oaks Assisted Living from Nov. 18 to Jan. 28

• Walk through ornament from Nov. 18 to Dec. 31

• Crocker Park marquee from Nov. 18 to Jan. 28

• Holiday shows presented by Sweet Kiddles Flexible Childcare Center of Westlake from noon to 2 p.m., Saturdays, from Nov. 25 to Dec. 23

• Crocker Park Ice Festival presented by Westland Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing from Jan. 26-28

Other events happening during the holidays will take place at Market Square, including:

• Cleveland Children’s Festival from noon to 3 p.m., Dec. 2,

• Red Cross Blood Drive from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Dec. 15

• Hometown Vendors Holiday Show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Dec. 16-17

• Run Santa Run 5K starting at 9 a.m., Dec. 23

• Resolution Run 5K starting at 9 a.m., Dec. 31 “Crocker Park is the perfect place to come together and celebrate the joy of the holiday season,” said Stacie Schmidt, vice president of marketing for Stark Enterprises in the release. “We’ve curated an exciting lineup of experiences that will create lasting memories for families and friends. We invite the community to join us in making this holiday season truly magical.”