ROCKINGHAM — Like it or not, ‘tis the season.
And for Richmond County residents, it just wouldn’t be the holidays without the annual Christmas on the Square in downtown Rockingham.
Always held on Harrington Square on the first Saturday of December, this year’s event will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Dec. 7. Over 80 vendors are expected again, with a plethora of activities for youngsters, along with a car and bike show for the “old kids.”
At this month’s Rockingham Downtown Corporation meeting, organizers were crossing the final T’s on the event, and the biggest concern was once again what Mother Nature had in mind for the day.
The event has been hampered many times in the past by rain, so sunny skies are being wished upon.
Those attending this year’s festival will find unique handmade Christmas gifts for relatives and friends at the annual craft fair. Many vendors return each year, but the lineup of handmade merchandise changes as artisans hone new crafts.
“I just like the fact that most of the vendors who come to sell crafts are people who just do it for hobbies,” said Carolyn Ford, who spearheads the event for the RDC. “Christmas on the Square might be the only festival they come to. It gives them a chance to showcase their talents.”
RDC’s Chairman and Rockingham Mayor Pro Tem John Hutchinson is optimistic about this year’s turnout.
“We’ve had great participation at our last three outdoor events: the Homecoming Parade, the Veteran’s Day Parade and the Downtown Spooktacular. It has been very exciting to see crowds like that downtown.”
The selection of gifts and crafts-ware should also please those in attendance, Hutchinson said. “We have had exceptionally good response from vendors for this year’s Christmas on the Square. In year’s past, vendors often waited until the event was almost here before making commitments to come. This year, we already have as many vendor commitments as we did in 2018, and more are coming in all the time,” he explained.
While attendees shop for Christmas gifts from local merchants, they’re also encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys or cash donations for the Toys for Tots campaign.
Santa will certainly be making a repeat appearance, but the group is still looking for a photographer to set up shop and handle the kids with Santa photos. In year’s past, the photographer charged $5 per photo and printed them on site. Due to the high volume, a professional photo printer is needed, along with someone with a good eye to man the camera. Up to 300 kids are expected to want proof they met with Santa at Christmas on the Square this year.
Anyone interested in being this year’s photographer or just wanting more information on the event can call 910-895-9088. Volunteers are also needed in the morning to help set up the event, so give the group a hand this year and show up a couple hours early.
The event is still accepting vendor applications. The applications and money are due Friday, Nov. 22. Download the application at www.gorockingham.net. The event map and letter will be mailed on the 25th.