Spirit of Christmas comes alive at Living Windows

Thousands of people gathered Friday night in downtown Jefferson City, sipping hot chocolate and watching in awe as the storefronts came to life with music, dancing, art and more.

The 32nd Living Windows, which was canceled last year due to the pandemic, brought a large crowd to watch the spirit of Christmas come alive. For the annual event, volunteers get paired with local businesses and the two work together on what to do and how to set up the act.

On one end of the blocked off High Street, people loaded into a wagon decorated with ornaments and Christmas lights to be pulled around by a Parks and Recreation Department employee driving a tractor. On the other end of the street, children stared in amazement at the live reindeer outside of Missouri River Regional Library before taking photos by them in a sleigh.

In between, people of all ages watched live performances in the windows of downtown businesses: people dressed as elves caroling under sparkly, colorful ornaments tied with ribbon; children in festive outfits dancing to Christmas songs; an artist painting Dr. Seuss- esque Christmas trees with a night sky backdrop and snowy ground; puppets dancing and singing about peace on earth; and much more.

Outside of Carrie's Hallmark, which had a book signing and an orchestra performance in the windows, employees greeted people as they walked by. Carrie's Hallmark employee Emma Davis said although the crowds can be overwhelming at times, she loves working at Living Windows.

"It's one of my favorites because it's kind of like the kickoff to the Christmas season," she said.

Jefferson City resident Laura Scheuler said she loves the tradition of bringing her two children to Living Windows.

"It's always been fun," she said. "We came as kids all the time, and now I get to bring my kids."

Since 1988, Living Windows has drawn thousands of visitors to see the festive performances and decorations. It was originally created by former News Tribune marketing director Beth Chisholm, who was inspired by a similar event in Lebanon.

Jefferson City resident Hayden Mobley and her family attended Living Windows for the first time in about 10 years Friday. Although the crowds were a bit overwhelming and the Grinch frightened their child, they said they enjoyed having something to get out and do, especially since it was nicer weather than most years.

In its early years, the event was held to attract crowds to the downtown area. Ever since, the event has meant the beginning of the holiday season for Jefferson City and thousands of people filling the streets and sidewalks of downtown.

Jefferson City resident Theresa Atkins and her family waited in line at the News Tribune's candy cane house where children got to walk through to pick a candy cane and books. Her children said their favorite parts were the candy cane house and the live reindeer.

"We missed it last year, so it's good to be back," Atkins said.