On Sunday, Dec. 4, downtown Clinton will transform into a wonderland of Christmas-themed children’s activities, music, open houses, contests, and more. It’s the 21st annual Christmas in Clinton—this year with some new items added to the lineup that Clinton residents have come to expect.

“We have a couple of new activities and a couple of new businesses that are participating this year,” said Clinton Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lauren Sposato.

The two new businesses joining the festivities are Amy’s Active Learning and Town Pride, both located in Post Office Square. The former is offering letters to Santa and a sensory activity for kids, while the latter will offer silly holiday photos.

The Clinton Chamber each year focuses on a different theme; the past two were Frozen and Minions. This year, it’s The Polar Express.

“We have some Golden Tickets that we just put together this morning that we’re going to give out to the kids,” said Sposato. “They’re going to get the full experience as if they’re really getting onto The Polar Express.”

Other activities for kids include the return of a favorite: the Valley-Shore YMCA is bringing back its gaga pit.

“It’s basically a large, inflatable playground for kids—they play dodge ball inside,” Sposato explained. “The kids absolutely love it.

“Also new this year, 3 Liberty Green Bed & Breakfast is going to be hosting Candy Land at their location,” she added.

Hayrides, face painting, ornament making, cookie decorating, and a meet-the-characters activity with Kidz Konnection round out the offerings for youth. There are plenty of activities for adults, too. The First Church of Christ Congregational is holding its 350th celebration during Christmas in Clinton, featuring historical skits and photos. Shoreline Community Women hosts a craft fair and bake sale, while the Arbor Garden Club holds a tree and wreath silent auction.

Food also features prominently, from the traditional hot cider and hot chocolate offered by the Lions Club to food trucks including Frank Andrews Mobile Kitchen, Meriano’s Cannoli Truck, Food Encounters, and Taco Pacifico. Local organizations are getting involved, too, with fried dough and crispy chicken wraps courtesy of the Clinton Volunteer Fire Department and hot dogs and hamburgers served up by members of Clinton Youth Football and Cheerleading.

One major highlight is the annual Soup’s On competition hosted by Body Karma Studio. A bracelet that allows you to taste each competing soup is $5. To vote for your favorite, drop the bracelet into a bucket for whichever soup you deem best. The proceeds benefit local families in need through Families Helping Families, which assists with warm winter clothing, food, and fuel assistance.

For added interest, this year the Clinton Fire Department and Clinton Police Department are going head-to-head for a separate trophy. The main contest features participants including Chow, Aqua, Frank Andrews Mobile Kitchen, and two-year champion Scottish Dave’s Pub.

“We’re hosting some wonderful restaurants and soup makers,” said Jessica Demers, owner of Body Karma Studio and board member of Families Helping Families. “Scottish Dave has been the reigning champion for the past two years. Last year he brought his Guinness beef stew, which was amazing, so we’re really excited to see what he’ll do this year.”

Members of the public have a chance to win prizes, too, at the 12 Days of Christmas raffle held at Liberty Bank. Local businesses including M&M Motors, Clinton Insurance Center, Lussier and Sons Septic Service, and Abel Buell Bed & Breakfast are donating 12 prizes total—raffle tickets are a buck apiece.

Finally, this year’s event includes human dog sled races. Given the variety, and in some cases novelty, of the offerings, it’s no wonder that Christmas in Clinton continues to be a big hit with the community.

“We’re always pleasantly surprised with the amount of community members who come out and enjoy the event—they’re the ones we do it for,” said Sposato. “We love when people come out and enjoy themselves.”

Oh yes—and one more thing. The Christmas Tree Lighting, that official kick-off to the Christmas season and herald of more good things to come, is at 5 p.m. in front of Town Hall. Christmas might come early in Clinton, but it’s only the beginning of the true Christmas season.

Christmas in Clinton is on Sunday, Dec. 4 from 1 to 6 p.m. Activities are free. For more information including a full schedule of events, visit www.christmasinclinton.com.