Stonington's Village Stroll

Children love ritual and tradition, and one of the most beloved traditions in Stonington is the annual Village Stroll. Everyone gathers in Wadawanuck Square; kids run around;  people sing Christmas carols; then - everyone shouting out the count-down - the Christmas tree is lit.

As one child said happily, "And the tree will stay lit all during Christmastime."

Water Street is closed to traffic. A horse-drawn wagon loads up with riders, including Santa, and proceeds down Water Street to Cannon Square, then back up Main Street. Children and grown-ups sing more Christmas carols. Carolers are on street corners. The merchants serve snacks and beverages.  "Devon House had the best - lots of chocolate," in the opinion of one child.

Other children were more cautious about giving praise. When asked what he thought of the window displays, the 10-year-old judge on the five-judge panel, Alexander Bowdler, said, "Some were good, and some -- weren't so good."

The other judges were: Kevin Bowdler (Stonington Village Improvement Association), Pam Mola (SVIA), Glee McAnanly (Town of Stonington Selectman), and Patch Regional Editor Elissa Bass. They looked at all the merchants' windows, then awarded Theresa's first place. Grand & Water Antiques and A.K. Dasher were tied for second. Dockside Dogs, whose window displays are beloved by many children year-round (their Thanksgiving display of dogs sitting at the table was especially popular), won third.

Some merchants' displays catered to children: La Grua's window featured a doll's house, with a stool thoughtfully placed on the sidewalk so small children could actually see it.  But that's not surprising: All year round,  the Stonington merchants are good to kids. Most can and do greet local children by name, remember their birthdays, and, with parental permission, give them candy. This really IS a place where everyone knows your name.

The Village Stroll, with everyone out on car-free Water Street saying hello and sharing holiday cheer, was one more manifestation of that community spirit. A small example of the way everyone helps out: some of the pictures in this article were provided by neighbors whose photographs came out better than mine.  Thanks and happy holidays to all!