Mittens on, wish lists ready; it’s time for a little Christmas magic in Port Washington! Gather your favorite people and head downtown for an afternoon of holiday traditions, sweet treats, and the kind of hometown cheer that makes December feel special.
Christmas on the Corner returns Saturday, December 5, 2026, from 2–6:30 p.m. With this year’s theme, Homemade Holidays, there’s plenty of inspiration to slow down, get creative, and make memories together. The best part? Admission and all five must-do’s below are completely free, making it easy to fill your afternoon with holiday magic! Here are five must-do’s for your visit.
1. Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
Start your afternoon with a holiday classic: a horse-drawn carriage ride through downtown Port Washington. Snuggle into your winter layers, settle in with someone special, and enjoy a different view of our historic downtown.
Make this one an early stop! Carriage rides end at 4:45 p.m. so the street can get ready for the evening parade. Arriving early gives you time to enjoy the ride and keep exploring afterward.
2. Say Hello to Santa and His Reindeer
A Christmas wish list deserves a very special audience. Bring the little ones to visit Santa at the Port Washington State Bank Community Room to capture a holiday photo, and meet his reindeer on E. Main Street during the festivities.
Whether your crew has been counting down the days to Christmas or simply loves a little North Pole magic, this stop will leave everyone smiling. Have your camera handy, you’ll want to remember those wide-eyed moments!
3. Make Something Merry and Enjoy Something Sweet
Roll a little creativity into your Christmas celebration with cookie decorating and festive crafts. With Homemade Holidays setting the mood, it’s a lovely opportunity to spend time making something together.
Keep the cozy feeling going with a visit to the S’more warming zone stationed on E. Pier Street. A sweet treat, warm hands, and good company? That sounds like a holiday afternoon well spent.
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4. Search for Elves and Find Your Favorite Holiday Window
Little eyes, big holiday adventure! Join the Elf on a Shelf scavenger hunt for a free, festive activity that’s perfect for kids. Pick up a scavenger hunt sheet at the Main Street Info table on the corner of E. Washington Street, then explore participating downtown businesses to find the Elf hiding inside their stores.
Return your completed form to the table before the tree lighting, or mail it in, for a chance to win a Downtown Port gift check!
As you search, take time to admire the storefronts in the Window Display Contest. Let everyone choose a favorite and enjoy a little extra Christmas cheer along the way.
Turn your walk into a friendly family debate: Which window gets your vote for the most Christmas cheer? Everyone can choose a favorite as you explore together.
5. Stay for the Evening Sparkle
Save room in your plans for a bright finish! Gather at the foot of St. Mary’s Hill for the tree lighting at 5 p.m., and join in singing “O Christmas Tree.”
Then enjoy the Christmas parade at 5:15 p.m., with illuminated floats and marchers bringing holiday cheer to the streets. Stay for the fireworks finale at 6 p.m. to send the evening off with an extra dose of sparkle.
Pull on your favorite scarf, bring the people you love, and make Christmas on the Corner part of your holiday season. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
