After the turkey, and the Rye Rec Turkey Trot, comes Mistletoe Magic, the Rye Chamber of Commerce’s holiday gift to the community. Last Sunday afternoon, downtown Rye was closed to vehicular traffic and Purchase Street was alive with safe and seasonal activities. 

Santa listened to dozens of requests from believers who had been very good since last Christmas. Mrs. Claus, Frosty, Rudolph, and Mickey and Minnie mingled. The Boy Scouts sold wreaths and centerpieces. The movers and shakers of Rye nonprofit organizations set up display tables on the sidewalks and were happy to share their missions.

Families took horse-drawn carriage and trolley rides. Everyone was amazed by the magic acts and delighted by the puppet show. The bravest went rock climbing. 

The chili cook-off was just the thing to take the chill off a late November day. 

Proceeds from this wonderful hometown event benefit the Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Fund.