Hometown Holiday and Merry Market brought out seasonal fun

Roscoe's Main Street spanning to Bridge Street was bustling with four hours of seasonal fun at the 2025 Hometown Holiday and Merry Market on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025. Stunning decorations lined the streets as families made memories together.

This event is hosted by the Village of Roscoe, and was organized by Trustee Michael Wright and co-chair Sharon Sima. In its eighth year this event offered something for everyone.

Frigid temperatures failed to stop the Christmastime spirit from happening; however, the originally planned horse and trolley rides from Sunshine Farms were canceled due to weather conditions. Stillman Bank was the trolley ride sponsor.

SMTD (Stateline Mass Transit District) provided warm and safe bus rides to different locations.

Christmas huts were set up along Main Street. Poison Ivy Pub, Mary's Market, and Sebastian's Cafe each offered unique food or drink items. Sebastian's offered churros which proved to be popular - they sold out.

Jim Blevins State Farm was transformed into Mount Krumpet, where the Grouch, Cindy Lou, and Max, (played by Jim and Tami Blevins’ dog) greeted visitors to their cave.

Sounds of the season came from Willowbrook Middle School, under the direction of Hayley Gotzsche who were the first to demonstrate their musical talents. Roscoe Middle School performed under the direction of Diana Boelte. Hononegah’s choir came under the direction of Carolyn Frieden. Stephen Mack Middle School was directed by Luke McMillian. Harlem Middle School was directed by Jessica Koenig.

Volunteers from elev815 turned the Harlem Roscoe Fire Department into the place to enjoy popcorn, hot cocoa, and games for kids. Mrs. Santa was a special guest.

About 35 volunteers from Hononegah's National Jr. Honor Society and Key Club helped things run smoothly in the fire station.

Santa's helpers greeted visitors while handing out jingle bells.

C&L Ceramics owner Linda Littlejohn assisted in making one of a kind ornaments.

B. Elliot's Salon added a festive touch by weaving colorful tinsel into hair.

Sara opened the doors at Party Like a Rockstar Balloon Bar, ready to assure that letters to Santa could be written and sent via a mailbox from the fire department. They also served hot chocolate in the store.

Kate Thompson of Linkt Jewelry offered permanent jewelry and accessory options. Daisy Jean Clothing Boutique was open and ready to welcome shoppers. Other nearby businesses served coffee and refreshments.

Snowballs covered the basement floor of the Roscoe United Methodist Church, ready and waiting for all who wanted to join in a snowball fight. This part of the event was made possible by Maintain Your Smile Dental.

Inside the Village Hall lines of little ones eagerly took turns telling Santa their Christmas wishes.

Santa sponsors Members Alliance Credit Union handed out fidget toys.

A smore's station sponsored by Detail Guys Auto Spa was set up in front of the Village Hall. Free hot chocolate was served.

A tree decorating contest helped in “making spirits bright.” Beautifully decorated trees, generously given by Williams Tree Farm, filled “Christmas Tree Lane.” Youth groups added their own flair to each Christmas tree. The public then voted for their favorite.

Many gathered to watch the lighting of an eye-catching tree promptly after the count of ten.

Special thanks are given to Roscoe Village Trustees Mike Sima and Dayne Mead, Joe Kurlinkus, Keli Freedlund for arranging for the choirs to be at the event, Doris Tropp of the Roscoe United Methodist Church, Troy Taylor of the Roscoe Public Works, Roscoe Police Chief Sam Hawley, Tom Farrone, Harlem-Roscoe Fire Chief John Bergeron, Sharon Hecox of SMTD, all of the volunteers, and all of the sponsors who made this event a great success.

Plans are already in place for organizing the 2026 Hometown Holiday and Merry Market.

”We are hoping to include even more businesses next year,” organizer Micheal Wright said.