On Nov. 23 the annual Christmas Traditions Festival in Historic Saint Charles began. It will be occurring through Dec. 24. During this time, Main Street is full of many festivities. People come from all over the world to take part in celebrating the holidays with their families.

“I like the decorations because it reminds me of helping my mom decorate for Christmas and putting up lights,” Junior Wyatt Eagan said.

Santas and other holiday characters dressed in international costumes crowd the streets. Every Saturday and Sunday at 1:30 p.m. the characters take part in a parade. They then hand out cards for the guests to keep and cherish forever. There are even opportunities to get pictures and eat breakfast with Santa. Pictures with Santa will be every Saturday from 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. and every Sunday from 12 p.m.- 5p.m.

“The cards the Santas give out are really fun and have interesting information,” Junior Courtney Vishy said.

The Christmas Traditions Festival is a great way to spend time with family while partaking in the holiday spirit. Also, there is an opportunity to visit a variety of stores, restaurants, and boutiques of your choosing.

“It looks pretty and it feels like Christmas,” Junior Missy Cloward said.