More is more when it comes to the holiday season in the Central West End. Yesterday’s post featured snapshots from the CWE Window Walk, which takes place throughout the commercial district, while today’s post is concentrated on activities that occurred at the fountain and up and down the sidewalk on Maryland Plaza.
Two brothers climb aboard for a confab with Santa, who spoke with a British accent and was puzzled that he wasn’t addressed as Father Christmas. (CWEnder Peter Gibbons was a delightful stand-in for Santa.)
A pint-sized fashionista on Maryland Plaza.
Photo courtesy of Kaleidoscope’s Drew Dinges
Buddy the Elf and Ariel from The Little Mermaid were popular attractions.
This year’s Holiday on the Plaza featured a Market in the Fountain Room above Edera. Among the items offered in the market were children’s apparel from Wonder Togs, a technology retail brand launched by two W.U. grads, and beautiful blooms from Magnolias.
Students from Maryland Plaza’s Paul Mitchell The School provided braids and updos.
The patron seemed overwhelmed by the choice of colored jewels to have applied to her forehead. Her father suggested blue.
Buddy the Elf made an appearance at the Market before he headed outside to emcee the 5 p.m. tree-lighting ceremony, below.
The fabulous Muny Teen Holiday Troopers brought Broadway to Maryland Plaza, above and below.
9th Ward Alderman Michael Browning (in grey coat, middle) welcomed the crowd to the Central West End and encouraged them to support local businesses and restaurants throughout the holiday season.
Photo courtesy of Frances Thompson
It was a big day for Cecelia, shown with her mother Kasey. She was 2023’s honorary tree lighter.
Several people in this enthusiastic group—friends from India who work at BJC—said they were excited to participate in this CWE tradition for the first time.
With appreciation to the Koplar family, Frances Thompson, Nathan Ambus and Doyle Johnson for a fabulous 19th Holiday on the Plaza. And thanks again to Kate Haher and the CWE North Neighborhood Security Initiative, who collaborated on the tree lighting ceremony.
These holiday presentations by supporting groups are really impressive. Many thanks to all who’ve made it happen.