Aurora’s Annual Community Christmas Spreads Cheer While Promoting Small Businesses & Hometown Feel

Downtown Aurora, Missouri, will come alive with the sights and sounds of the season when the Aurora Downtown Project hosts its annual Community Christmas celebration Saturday, Nov. 29.

Now in its fourth year, the event has become a favorite for many families who look forward to spending the day together downtown. The celebration runs from noon to 7 p.m. and includes artisans, food vendors, live performances and activities for all ages.

Community Christmas began in 2021 as a simple way to bring people together after a difficult year. What started with a few booths and a small group of volunteers has grown into a daylong celebration that fills the square and kicks off the holiday season for the community.

“We’ve added something new each year, and this time we’re really excited about having an ice-skating rink,” says Ashley Kennedy, event co-chair and treasurer of the Aurora Downtown Project. “It’s going to be a great experience for families.”

The rink, sponsored by Arvest Bank, will be open all day and free to the public. Skating sessions will last 20 to 30 minutes, and families can sign up for a time slot when they arrive. While they wait for their turn, they can check out the shops, grab lunch or visit with vendors around the square.

And, of course, Santa will be there. Ashley calls him “the real deal.” He has been part of the celebration since the beginning, and she says it’s a good time for everyone to check in to see if they are on the naughty or nice list.  

“He’s wonderful with the kids and families,” she said. “People come back every year just to see him.”

The day includes plenty of free fun for kids. Bounce houses and the Gingerbread Lane play area will be open all afternoon, giving little ones plenty to do while parents shop and catch up with friends.  

“This is our way of giving back to the community,” Ashley said. “Families can come downtown, make memories and enjoy the day without worrying about the cost.”

Live performances will keep things merry throughout the day. Local groups will perform music, dance and skits, and lead caroling near the tree as evening approaches.

Several friendly competitions are also part of the fun. There’s the Holiday Pet Pageant, where pet owners can show off their pets' best holiday looks, and the Ugly Sweater Contest, which Ashley says always draws a crowd.  

“People have fun with it. They bring twinkling lights and tinsel-covered outfits.”

Another highlight, Deck the Wheels, invites participants to decorate cars, trucks or motorcycles in holiday themes. Winners of the People’s Choice Award will be announced during the tree lighting ceremony that evening. A pie auction earlier in the day helps raise funds for next year’s event.

At dusk, the crowd gathers for the tree lighting, where Santa leads the countdown and the square lights up for the season.

Ashley says she often hears from residents who plan their holiday weekend around Community Christmas. For many, it has become a tradition to meet friends downtown, visit local shops and watch the tree lighting together. The event also draws visitors from nearby towns, helping introduce new people to Aurora’s businesses and downtown charm.

“The goal is to bring people together,” Ashley says. “It’s family-friendly, it’s full of joy and it’s a chance for everyone to make memories right here in downtown Aurora.”  

Money raised through vendor fees or the pie auction goes directly back into funding the event.

Planning for the event starts months in advance. The committee begins meeting in May to organize vendors, sponsors and volunteers.  

“It takes a lot of coordination, but it’s worth it when you see everyone smiling and having fun,” Ashley says.  

Volunteers play a big role, arriving early on event day to help set up and staying late to clean up. Many return each year, saying it’s one of their favorite ways to be part of the community.

The Community Christmas event also happens on Small Business Saturday, giving visitors another reason to spend the day downtown. Local business owners also benefit from the overlap, and attendees will enjoy special sales and treats.  

The Aurora Downtown Project’s mission is to preserve, promote and enhance downtown Aurora by creating a welcoming place where businesses can thrive and families feel connected.  

Community Christmas plays a big part in that. It brings people together, gives local businesses a boost and keeps the small-town warmth that makes Aurora special.

For more information, visit adpmo.com or follow the Aurora Downtown Project on Facebook.

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