Jingle Bell Night set to spark the holiday season in downtown Paris
- Casandra Turnbull
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Casandra Turnbull
Managing Editor
Downtown Paris will come alive with twinkling lights, music, and holiday magic this Friday as the community gathers for one of its most cherished traditions: Jingle Bell Night. For many longtime residents, and for business owners who have weathered nearly a year of construction, this year’s event represents far more than a festive evening. It marks a joyful comeback.
“Jingle Bell Night has always been regarded by our downtown retailers as a kickoff to Christmas shopping,” said Paris BIA Chair Penny Ritchie, owner of Pennylane Dermal Solutions. “It’s an event that we hope will draw our local community to shop local.”
The 2025 celebration lands after nine challenging months for downtown shops affected by the closure of the Nith River Bridge and Grand River Street North. Ritchie says this year’s gathering carries extra significance.
“It’s no surprise our retailers have felt the closure,” she said. “We’re putting in extra measures to make this year’s Jingle Bell Night even more spectacular. We want to see our businesses have a successful Christmas season.”
With the Nith River Bridge reopening at 4 p.m. on the night of the event, the timing couldn’t be better. Grand River Street North, between Mechanic and William Streets, will remain closed until 9 p.m. to allow the festivities to unfold safely. OPP officers will be on hand to manage traffic, particularly during the much-anticipated tree-lighting ceremony at 7 p.m.
Organizers promise one of the most vibrant Jingle Bell Nights yet. Visitors can expect:
Carolling by Sacred Heart students and other local choirs
Performances by Core Dance Project
Doug the Great, returning on illuminated stilts
Roaming holiday characters throughout the downtown
Tree-lighting ceremony led by a Paris student selected from a community colouring contest
Paris Firefighters collecting new toy donations for the annual Paris Community Christmas Hamper program
Horse-drawn carriage rides through the freshly revitalized downtown streetscape
In-store specials, treats, and giveaways from downtown retailers
Free gift wrapping at Wincey Mills
“We have so many fun things in store,” Ritchie said. “There will be prizes to win and treats to taste - and the carriage rides through our brand-new streetscape will be magical.”
Ritchie says the best way the community can show its support is simple: choose local this holiday season.
“By remembering to shop local, you support our community,” she said. “Maybe pop into a store you’ve never been in before.”
Many shop owners spent the construction months finding creative ways to connect with customers, from online sales to curbside options, and are now eager to welcome people back inside their stores.
The spirit of giving is deeply woven into Jingle Bell Night, thanks in large part to the annual firefighters’ toy drive.
“’Tis the season of giving,” Ritchie said. “We know there are families struggling, especially in harder economic times. If you’re able to, please give back to our community.”
For Ritchie, who was born and raised in Paris, this year’s event will be especially meaningful.
“I can’t wait,” she said. “It’s nice to see our small-town traditions continue. I think it will be an exceptional evening with the reopening of Grand River Street after the festivities.”
As the lights turn on, the streets fill, and neighbours gather, Ritchie hopes visitors leave feeling the spirit that defines Jingle Bell Night.
“I hope they feel a sense of pride for our community,” she said. “This is the perfect way to launch the holiday season.”
Jingle Bell Night runs until 9 p.m. on Friday, November 21 with activities, shopping, entertainment, and holiday cheer throughout downtown Paris.
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