Something Different: Check out Philipsburg's Mid-Century Christmas Celebration for a Day Full of Nostalgia
Philipsburg's Mid-Century Christmas event will kick off on Saturday, December 14 at 10 a.m. as merchants open their shops to celebrate the holidays in style. The rest of the day is chock full of special appearances by such seasonal luminaries as the Grinch, Rudy, and Rudolph, and yes, the Jolly Old Elf himself, who will be paraded down Front St. in a 1951 International Harvester firetruck. There will also be special musical performances, wreath and window-decorating contests, vintage cars parked along the street (bring yours if you have one!), a showing of It's a Wonderful Life at the majestic Rowland Theatre, a tree-lighting ceremony, and a mid-century-themed bash with live music by Elvis (you can't get much more mid-century than the King!) at Dead Canary Brewing to cap off the festive day.
For more information and for a complete schedule, click here.
Event organizers say they wanted to do something different and memorable to put Philipsburg on the map for the holidays. And because the town is famous for being home to the tallest Santa Claus in Pennsylvania — Philipsburg's Santa is more than thirty-seven-feet tall —created by local artist Bill Adams in 1962, as well as to Shindig Alley, a downtown boutique specializing in mid-century-modern furniture, vintage clothes, and accessories, the idea was born.
“This event will be a heart-warming nostalgic walk back in time,” says event organizer Julie Houston. “There will be music playing on the streets, the storefront windows will be decked out, there will be Christmas characters roaming downtown and, of course, Santa will be coming to town! The Mid-Century Christmas committee has secured some vintage vehicles parked on Front Street just like in the old days for fabulous photo opportunities. Our gracious downtown merchants will be having special sales, giveaways, and treats for all who visit. Also, dig out your favorite old stylish coat from the back of the closet and dress as though you would’ve in the 40s through the 70s! This will be a day of fun-filled activities that will go into the evening.”
The quaint town of Philipsburg has been transforming over the past few years as long-neglected buildings have been brought back to life, and new businesses have opened within them.
On December 14, 2024, the historic downtown shopping district in Philipsburg will glow extra brightly as Front Street buzzes with the same bustling activity and joyful energy that many people recall fondly from the town's glory days.
“Like many small towns affected by a shifting economy, Philipsburg fell on hard times after its heyday in the 1940s through the 1970s,” says Eric Rusnak, president of the Philipsburg Revitalization Corporation (PRC). “But recently, there's been a renewed effort to bring Philipsburg back to its full potential, and our Mid-Century Christmas Celebration is a way of showcasing the wonderful things a group of dedicated businesspeople and volunteers has accomplished so far, and reminding people how great town used to be — and will be again.”
"Philipsburg's best days are not behind us — they're yet to come," Rusnak concludes. "It is a town full of hard work and heart. There's a palpable energy downtown these days and a powerful sense of optimism. The Mid-Century Christmas Celebration will capitalize on that momentum and provide residents and visitors alike with a wholesome, fun day that captures the warmth and community that this season is all about."
You don't have to wait ’til the 14th to get in the season, either. Businesses are decorated, and Santa is collecting letters at his mailbox at the beautifully restored Louis Finberg Building — 200 N. Front St. — through December 15.
For more information and for a complete schedule, click here.
