Published: December 01, 2008 03:29 pm      

Victorian Stroll set for Dec. 11-14

By DELANIA TRIGG

Register Staff Writer



Downtown Gainesville assumes a festive atmosphere during the annual Victorian Stroll.

The three-day event is a celebration of the holidays and as in past years, is set to feature a festival of trees, downtown shops open until 8 p.m., carriage rides, carolors in period costumes, the Historic South Gainesville Home Tour, and a live nativity as well as other activities.

The Cooke County courthouse has always played a part in the Victorian Stroll, but this year events that are usually held inside the courthouse will take place on the square outside the building due to courthouse renovations.

The Butterfield Stage is also taking part in the Victorian Stroll event with performances of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” at the State Theater Thursday, Dec. 11; Friday, Dec. 12; Saturday, Dec. 13 and Sunday, Dec. 14.

Each Thursday, Friday and Saturday performances begin at 7:30 p.m.

Sunday shows are set for 2:30 p.m.

The Festival of Trees and visits with Santa are set for both Friday and Saturday nights along with carriage rides, carolers and choir performances in various locations downtown.

On Saturday, voting for the Festival of Trees ends.

Again, visitors can take carriage rides and listen to seasonal music courtesy of local carolers and choirs.

The Historic South Gainesville Home Tour is set for 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday evening. Tickets and refreshments are available at the Morton Museum of Cooke County.

Journey to Bethlehem is set to begin on the courthouse square and end at the live nativity at First Presbyterian Church.

Lynne Monden, president of the Downtown Development Association, said her organization is pleased with merchant participation in events such as the Victorian Stroll.

“We have really been able to work together to bring people downtown,” she said, “Most (downtown) shops have great holidays plans.”