George Streetfest on Main and St. George City combined holiday celebrations Friday night, Dec. 4, bringing holiday cheer to Historic Downtown for participants of all ages. Given the number of community members gathered on Main Street, bundled up to stay warm and enjoying the spirit of the holiday, it was more than reminiscent of a scene from Dr. Seuss’ Whoville. In fact, Santa and the Grinch himself were both on hand making appearances in selfies photo booths throughout the evening.
The highlight of the event was the announcement of the 2015 Gingerbread Tour winner by Mayor Jon Pike at 9 p.m. Prior to the event, nine downtown merchants spent several days vying for votes at their business locations, online and on social media.
The coveted rotating Gingerbread Trophy — previously held by 2014 winner Judd’s Store — was presented to the 2015 Gingerbread Tour champion following a long-lasting drumroll as votes were tallied near the stage by event staff members dressed as Santa’s elves, and at the St. George Tabernacle bell tower ring of 9 p.m., Mayor Pike took word from event presenter Melynda Thorpe, and the 2015 Gingerbread Tour champion was announced as St. George restaurant Twenty-Five Main.
Receiving the majority of votes via ballot, social media and online voting, Twenty-Five Main emerged early in the evening as the clear leader in the race toward the trophy for its gingerbread winter wonderland window scene. At the 8 p.m. close of voting, Main Street’s favorite cupcake shop had earned 155 of 619 votes and title of 2015 Gingerbread Tour Champion. In second place with 91 votes was Main Street Antiques’ elaborate adobe rendition of a gingerbread house. George’s Corner’s gingerbread likeness of the St. George Carousel received a ballot boost from social media voters propelling it past Art & Soul Gallery for third place.
Throughout the evening, DJ Lex kept holiday choirs and carolers hopping on Main Stage, with Soul What!? headlining to an enthusiastic crowd at 9 p.m.
Highlights throughout the evening included Santa and carousel rides at Town Square, a DJ dance party on Tabernacle Street, and games and youth activities hosted by Habitat for Humanity, Dixie State University Art Dept., and St. George Area Chamber of Commerce.
The Zion Brewing Company Jazz Garden provided the soulful sounds of crooner Jim Griffiths at Ancestor Square Courtyard, offering sounds reminiscent of a Bing Crosby Christmas special.
“It was a perfect way to start the holiday season,” said Thorpe. “Attendance exceeded our expectations this year, and the streets were filled from Ancestor Square to Town Square with the sounds and lights of Christmas.”
George Streetfest returns next first Friday, Jan. 1, with a New Year’s Day Masquerade led by DJ Lex and his Amazing Steam Powered Music Machine. This new, favorite nightlife event in southern Utah is designed to offer something for everyone and has been approved to continue every first Friday.
For more information about upcoming events, visit georgestreetfest.com, or email george@emceesquare.com.
Gingerbread Tour Vote Tally
B = ballot
SM = social media
W = online vote
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