What's Going On: A Walk, A Run, A Santa, A Craft Show & Snow Child

We’re totally in holiday mode now that the last remnants of the turkey have hopefully been put to rest. And now with the appearance of the Wise Guys on the hill it can only mean the annual Christmas Walk will dominate the downtown in Newaygo Friday, beginning at 6pm.
This is one of the most consistently wonderful events in River City and seems to always attain an aura of kindness and congeniality among the populace. There are always pleasant surprises to be found and the merchants do a splendid job of showcasing their wares with some providing delectable offerings as well.
Love this event. Don’t miss it.

The RiverStop Cafe brings in Mike Larsen as part of their much appreciated Thursday Night Series.
From the Cafe folks:  “Classic and cozy and an excellent guitar player and vocalist. He covers classic rock, classic country, and in-house favorites.We hope you'll join us - just in time for one of the most festive weekends of the year!"

​Personally, running has always been a spectator sport, though I will admit to have won the last fight I was in by  more than 6 blocks .
This adversion to moving quickly aside, I recognize the increasing number of runners passing by my Hess Lake house,  
If you’re a runner, Velocity St. Nick Kick is  your chance to support a local cross country team. If you’re a dormant runner you can support the team  while proving to yourself you can still throw down a 5K without needing help with your socks the next day. 
You can also participate by doing the one mile walk, my much preferred manner of motion.
Proceeds go to the Newaygo Cross Country  team and Coach (and N3 Editor) Mercer always makes this one a fun way to spend a chilly December morn.
Here’s the skinny: 
https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/Newaygo/VelocityStNickKick23?fbclid=IwAR3KdRxd7tZwGBQU_6mKPxrUQi0CXq8tJ2UeqmMiNeWVu-WQ94hlBQ29tXs

Christmas in Croton takes place at the Croton Township Hall. We don’t know much other than there will be wagon rides and an appearance by the Claus’s. 3-6pm Saturday.

Didn’t want to fight the crowds in GR for their Santa Claus Parade? There’s another opportunity Saturday starting at 11am when the Rockford Santa Parade hits the downtown streets. Nice shops in town. Check out the cheese shop. Pricey, but truly righteous cheese.

Where’s one of the most popular craft shows around according to personal friends who know such things? West Catholic’s show in GR is a Big One when it comes to these events. 1805 Bristol Ave NW, Grand Rapids, Starts at 9am.

We love community theater and this weekend Stage Door Players in downtown White Cloud will be  presenting Snow Child Friday and Saturday. Box office opens at 6:30pm. A young cast will be bringing this classic story home so get out there and support these budding thespians. Here's our article about the play:
​https://www.nearnorthnow.com/features-and-fun/snow-child-coming-to-stage-door