Batavia Lantern Walk adds an extra hour for shoppers

Batavia MainStreet will extend its annual Holiday Lantern Walk to a four-hour window this year, running from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13. The free event invites residents to explore downtown Batavia and shop at more than 30 local businesses.

Kristen Desler, the assistant director for Batavia MainStreet, said the additional hour allows participants to spend more time exploring the downtown area. She noted that illuminated lanterns will create a candlelight atmosphere while a trolley service helps travelers move between the different sides of the district or return to their vehicles at the end of the night.

Shoppers can visit establishments such as CaberNeigh, Warehouse 55, Ease Escape, Kitty Cocoa Cafe, and the Batavia Boardwalk Shops. These locations will sell festive decorations, gifts, and other holiday items. Participants also have the option to receive Downtown Dollars and pose for photographs with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Adults aged 21 and older can purchase a separate wine-tasting experience for $25. Desler described this as a limited-ticket 'Holiday Cheer' event that mirrors the organization's previous Step into Spring Wine Walk. The ticket includes an event map and 12 one-ounce wine pours. Tickets are currently on sale through a link provided by the organization.

Batavia MainStreet operates as a nonprofit group focused on enhancing downtown Batavia through community programs and volunteer efforts. The organization directs interested parties to its website or social media pages for further details on the event.