Annual Mistletoe Magic, Chili Cook-off Transform Purchase Street into Winter Wonderland

Purchase Street transformed into a winter wonderland once again on Sunday, as families packed Downtown Rye to join the 22nd annual Mistletoe Magic celebration.

The event, known in particular for its heated chili cook-off, is sponsored by the Rye Chamber of Commerce and raises funds for the Chamber’s Scholarship Fund.

Many dignitaries were in attendance, including Santa and Mrs. Claus, who took photos with plenty of good boys and girls and took gift requests. Visitors were treated to rides through the celebration on a horse-drawn carriage and a choo-choo train.

Eight local establishments competed in the chili cook-off and all distinguished themselves: MKT, Milton Point Provisions, Gordito, Bareburger, Rye Grill & Bar, Ruby’s, the Rye Fire Department, and Rye Country Store. Judges, including News12’s Lisa LaRocca, Assemblyman Steve Otis, and FOX 5’s Richard Giacovas (a Rye native), declared MKT the winner for the second year in a row.

“It wasn’t easy, but we decided that MKT is the judges’ choice,” LaRocca announced as the trophy was presented. Ruby’s took the people’s choice award, which reflected the vote of festival-goers who sampled each chili.

It was a chilly day and Purchase Street merchants welcomed holiday shoppers seeking refuge. At Dabney Lee, shoppers picked up holiday ornaments.

“People love our ornaments this time of year,” store owner Dabney Lee said, showing off her white tree with sparkling baubles. “My favorite part of this event is seeing how happy all the kids are.”

Palmer & Purchase showcased its exclusive and popular cashmere line. And over at Rye Country Store, Eric Miranda identified a seasonal favorite: “Everybody is always asking for the brisket at the holidays!”

Back on Purchase Street, DJs sponsored by Ryemarkable Moms spun festive tunes while visitors enjoyed sweet treats like hot chocolate and cotton candy. Children gathered on Smith Street for puppet shows and had the opportunity to put letters to Santa in mailboxes designated for the North Pole. Boy Scout Troop 2 sold holiday wreaths, and a community raffle offered prizes from Rye shops.

Kids played carnival games, jumped in bouncy houses, and explored a blow-up igloo. Many captured the memories with the help of a 360-degree selfie camera. Lines quickly formed for face painting and to get balloon animals, and there were live birds of prey on the Village Green, courtesy of the Rye Nature Center.

As dusk settled and the crowds dispersed, Purchase Street was bathed in the new sparkling lights brought to town by the Chamber and the April May June team at Compass real estate, and funded by local businesses and individuals.

“The new lights are fabulous, they’re really spectacular,” said Dr. Debbie Troy of RyeSmiles Pediatric Dentistry, “You can see them from afar!”

With another successful Mistletoe Magic wrapped up with a bow, everyone was feeling the holiday spirit.

“We’ve been doing this for five years,” said Tim Cacase, owner of eateries Gordito and Rafele who also is a co-treasurer of the Chamber. “We love the community aspect — it’s a great opportunity for the Chamber of Commerce to give back and thank everyone for all the support.”