Blackwell Prepares for Annual Hometown Christmas Celebration and Market

The holiday spirit will shine bright in Blackwell this December as the community prepares for its annual Hometown Christmas Celebration and Holiday Market & Craft Show on Monday, December 8 at the Blackwell Fairgrounds.

Festivities will begin with the Christmas Parade, which lines up at 5:30 p.m. at the Farmer’s Co-op and steps off at 6 p.m. Organizers remind participants that all entries must be lighted and registered through the Blackwell Chamber of Commerce by calling 580-363-4195. The parade will feature a single Santa Claus, ensuring that the magic of Christmas remains focused on the community’s one true St. Nick.

Immediately following the parade, the city’s traditional tree lighting ceremony will take place, complete with Christmas carolers and this year’s official tree lighting by last year’s Blackwell Chamber Citizen of the Year, Mark Estep.

After the lights are aglow, families can stroll through the Holiday Market in the All-Purpose Building, where local vendors will offer coffee, cinnamon rolls, and a variety of handcrafted goods perfect for Christmas shopping. Nearby in the 4H Building, children can visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus while enjoying hot chocolate provided by United Outreach and cookies from Blackwell Tourism.

Adding a magical touch to this year’s celebration, two live reindeer from the Reindeer Club of Oklahoma in Bristow will be on display for photos and learning opportunities. Nick Ledbetter will be on hand to answer reindeer-related questions and display an antique sleigh—an ideal spot for family photos.

Also returning by popular demand is Jon Pansze of Yukon, Oklahoma, who will once again delight children with his festive balloon art and holiday creations. Pansze was a crowd favorite at this year’s Boo-Bash, and organizers are thrilled to have him back for the Christmas celebration.

The Blackwell Hometown Christmas Market & Craft Show will run from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. inside the All-Purpose Building at the Fairgrounds, 800 S. Main. Vendor setup begins at 4 p.m. The entry fee is $10, refundable upon setup, and forms are available through Sherry Buellesfeld at the Blackwell Chamber of Commerce.

For more information on the reindeer or balloon entertainment, visit www.reindeerclub.net and oklahomamagic.com.

With lights, laughter, and the spirit of giving filling the night, this year’s Hometown Christmas promises to be one of Blackwell’s most heartwarming traditions yet.