(Atlantic, Iowa) –  The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce says downtown Atlantic, which is listed as Travel Iowa’s number one Christmas destination, shines bright each year with nearly 200,000 lights spanning six blocks. It’s a scene straight out of a Hallmark movie, with twinkling streets, warm shop windows, and a community overflowing with holiday cheer. Chamber Executive Direcor Kelsey Beschorner says she looks forward to Christmas in Atlantic every year, because “It’s such a special time for our community. Families come from all over to experience the magic of our downtown, enjoy free holiday activities, and shop our fantastic locally owned businesses. It truly captures the spirit of the season in Atlantic.”

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce has announced Gregg Young of Atlantic is the presenting sponsor for this year’s Christmas festivities. Beschorner says “We’re thrilled to partner with Gregg Young of Atlantic to help bring this beloved tradition to life. Their support helps make each event even more memorable.”

The celebration begins this Saturday, November 8th with the Holiday Open House. Local retailers will open their doors for a festive preview of the season featuring treats, giveaways, and special promotions. For the ninth year, the Chamber will offer AtlantiCash at a discounted rate as part of the Holiday Promotion, sponsored by First Whitney Bank & Trust, Cappel’s Ace Hardware and Akin Building Centers. Kelsey Beschorner says “Last year $40,000 worth sold in just 45 minutes. Every dollar goes right back into local businesses, which is what makes this program so impactful.”

For one day only, on Saturday, November 8th, discounted AtlantiCash will be available from 9 AM to 12 PM (or while supplies last) at the Chamber. Packs of $100 in AtlantiCash will be sold for $80, with a limit of three packs per person.

The Annual Grand Lighting Ceremony, sponsored by Atlantic Municipal Utilities, takes place Thursday, November 20th at 5 PM at the Historic Rock Island Depot. Santa will make a special arrival at 5:30 PM to help light up downtown and visit with children in his cabin from 6 to 7:30 PM at City Park.

The Lighted Parade and Fireworks, one of Atlantic’s most cherished traditions, will be held Saturday, December 6th, starting at 6 PM. Parade entries can be submitted by filling out the form and emailing it to chamber@atlanticiowa.com. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required. The parade and fireworks are sponsored by A.M. Cohron & Son, NISHNANET, McDermott Roofing, and Rush, CPA & Associates.

Before the parade, families can visit Santa’s Cabin for hot chocolate, treats, and horse-drawn carriage rides from 3 to 5:30 PM, sponsored by Lloyd & Meredith, Roland Funeral Home, and Heritage House. Visit www.atlanticiowa.com for Santa’s full schedule. Santa’s Cabin is sponsored by the Atlantic Rotary Club, Farmhouse & Flowers, Coyote Will Wind, Heritage House, and Akin Building Centers.

The Angel of Christmas Award is another cherished tradition that recognizes a community member, or organization, who embodies the true spirit of giving during the holiday season. This heartwarming honor celebrates those who go above and beyond to spread kindness, joy, and generosity throughout the Atlantic area. Nominations are due to the Chamber by November 29th, and the award is proudly sponsored by Cass Health.

Updates and event details can be found at www.atlanticiowa.com or on the Chamber’s Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat pages. Residents and visitors are encouraged to share the holiday spirit using #MyAtlanticIA on Facebook and Instagram (@AtlanticIowaFan). For additional information, contact the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce at chamber@atlanticiowa.com or 712-243-3017.