MUNISING, Mich. (WZMQ) – The streets of Munising were alive tonight with the spirit of Christmas. The Rekindle The Spirit Festival kicked off the holiday season on Thursday.
Munising’s Christmas tree was officially lit this evening by none other than Santa Claus himself. The lighting of the tree is the official start of the holiday season and the start of the annual Rekindle The Spirit Festival here in downtown Munising. With the falling snow and all the festive lights on area businesses, Munising was transformed into a winter wonderland. CEO of the Alger County Chamber of Commerce, Dr. Kathy Reynolds says the hearty residents of Munising came out despite the weather.
“Things, I think went really well. You know, the weather’s been a little bit tricky, so we were kind of concerned about that leading up to this, but we had a nice crowd come out tonight, and the businesses really put on a nice show for everybody,” said Dr. Reynolds.
Enlisting the help of local businesses, downtown was a glow with colorful lights and smiling faces. Munising internet company, Jamadots joined in and turned their offices into a gingerbread village. Operations Manager Renee Bowerman says it’s become an annual tradition.
“Every year. We are a business that enjoys participating in the rekindling of the spirit. And since we’ve added on to our building, we have a great walk-through. And we decided that in winter wonderland gingerbread village was just perfect,” said Bowerman.
Most of the attractions were indoors, and with tonight’s weather, no one was complaining.
“As far as getting people out and about, they like to go inside. You know, they grab something to eat, they warm up and go on to the next thing,” said Dr. Reynolds.
Munising is certainly ready for the holidays…after all, The Village of Christmas is just down the street.
