A happy holiday surprise was given to East County, as Christmas in the Village returned to downtown La Mesa unexpectedly and at almost the last minute. The La Mesa Village Merchants Association staged an attenuated version of prior years’ celebrations from Dec. 9-12. Santa and Mrs. Claus were there making an appearance for children and families, and performers entertained crowds at various locations around the Village.
A happy holiday surprise was given to East County, as Christmas in the Village returned to downtown La Mesa unexpectedly and at almost the last minute. The La Mesa Village Merchants Association staged an attenuated version of prior years’ celebrations from Dec. 9-12. Santa and Mrs. Claus were there making an appearance for children and families, and performers entertained crowds at various locations around the Village.
The remodeling and reconstruction of streets and sidewalks in the Village had been predicted to cancel this year’s event. But the work schedule ran faster than expected, permitting a smaller scale Christmas in the Village. This pleased downtown La Mesa business owners and strolling shoppers alike, although the streets were not closed to traffic.
“It’s lovely,” said one shop owner whose store sells unique greeting cards and gift items. “I am just happy to have people able to walk in from outside along safe, even sidewalks.”
A cursory survey of local merchants and attendees indicated that the abbreviated Christmas in the Village was welcome but paled in comparison to previous years. And those questioned expressed the desire that they would like to see a more extensive Christmas in the Village in the future.
Shops stayed open until 8 p.m., while restaurants and bars kept their doors open until later than usual hours for celebrants to continue their festivities or refresh their spirits. Christmas movies were shown on Friday and Saturday nights.
More information on the La Mesa Village Merchants Association can be found online at www.lmvma.com.
