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Grinnell’s annual Jingle Bell Holiday celebration once again lit up downtown on Friday, Nov. 21, drawing crowds of students, families, and community members for an evening filled with connection, tradition, and festive cheer.

For many, the night began with a classic Jingle Bell Holiday favorite: a horse-drawn carriage ride into the heart of downtown. Central Park and surrounding storefronts were adorned in twinkling lights, evergreen garlands, and holiday displays that set the tone for a night of celebration.

As the evening unfolded, attendees enjoyed activities throughout the community—live music, arts and crafts, and warm cups of complimentary hot chocolate and apple cider. More than 40 local businesses and organizations opened their doors late into the evening, offering holiday-themed treats, demonstrations, and activities. The Winter Farmer’s Market added to the energy, with vendors selling everything from locally produced honey and handmade jewelry to soaps, baked goods, and other artisan gifts. Down the block, the Grinnell Area Arts Council hosted its annual Local Artist Market, giving shoppers an opportunity to find one-of-a-kind items while supporting Grinnell’s creative community.

For many, the event marked not just the beginning of the holiday season but an invitation to experience the vibrancy of downtown Grinnell.

Yesenia Mozo ’22, an alumna and the current marketing and communications coordinator for the Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce, played a key role in organizing this year’s celebration. She shared how Jingle Bell Holiday exemplifies the Chamber’s work to strengthen connections across the community.

“Many people are often unaware of what the Chamber does for the Grinnell community, and the Jingle Bell Holiday event is a perfect example of the work we devote ourselves to,” Mozo said. “We help drive the community into our beautiful downtown—to build loyalty to our local businesses, encourage our community to enjoy each other's company, and foster those connections between the town and college.”

Reflecting on her own time as a student, Mozo noted how events like this help create meaningful ties between campus and the wider community.

“When I was a Grinnell student, I was unaware of our local businesses and the many events happening downtown, but every year I could be found enjoying Jingle Bell Holiday and the way my fellow students would get involved!”

Similarly, Donnette Ellis, community relations and grant coordinator in the College’s Office of Community Partnerships, Planning, and Research, shared:

“������Ƶ loves Jingle Bell Holiday! It is a wonderful way to get our students into the community and see more of what Grinnell, the town, is all about.”

With its blend of tradition, local pride, and holiday spirit, Jingle Bell Holiday continues to be one of Grinnell’s most beloved community moments—a reminder of the joy found in gathering, celebrating, and supporting neighbors near and far.

Photos From the Evening by Justin Hayworth: