Mars celebrates tree lighting, small businesses
MARS — The holiday season officially began in Mars over the weekend, kicked off by its annual Light Up Mars event Saturday, Nov. 29.
The event featured horse-drawn carriage rides, a photo opportunity with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a ceremonial tree lighting, a holiday market and more. The borough put a bow on the festivities with a parade to end the night.
Classic Christmas songs such as “Jingle Bells” and “Blue Christmas” drifted through town square on speakers. The borough’s iconic spaceship statue was decorated with twinkling lights to complement the nearby tree.
It also doubled as Mars’ Small Business Saturday, offering a scavenger hunt encouraging people to go to local establishments. Once completed, participants were eligible to enter a raffle with baskets put together by local businesses.
The event showcased Mars staples such as Mars Pizza and Pfeifer’s Hardware, along with newer businesses such as Fyie Boutique, which had its grand opening Saturday.
Dina Russo, owner of Masterpiece Creations Art Gallery which opened in April, welcomed customers with an affordable craft and free temporary tattoos.
Russo said she was glad to participate in Light Up Mars because she was happy to share her gallery’s art with the public and sensed a need for community.
“This town needs to be brought back to life, and that’s what we’re here to do,” she said, adding that Masterpiece Creations will host an event with a live rock band at the gallery on Friday.
The holiday market, complete with vendors, tents and food trucks, featured businesses from elsewhere in the county, such as Not Your Average Shop, a toy store in Evans City.
Mars Public Library had a tent as well, selling baked goods and providing free wrapped books to children, according to library director Janae Callihan.
Hunter Jones, 9, and Bellamy Miller, 8, both of Mars, are friends and neighbors who attended the event with Hunter’s grandfather.
“I think (Light Up Mars) is so fun,” Bellamy said, though Hunter said it was “extremely cold.”
It was both girls’ first time at the annual event. Bellamy said she bought a pretzel and “spent all (her) money on 3D printed things.” She claimed her favorite part of the day was meeting Santa.
Madi McIntyre, of Scott Township, Allegheny County, also said Santa was her favorite part of Light Up Mars. She traveled to the borough with her baby to meet family members halfway. She said they were looking for child-friendly holiday activities, and this event came at just the right time.
“I think having Santa is so sweet,and I’m glad the line isn’t wrapped around the street,” McIntyre said.
Santa spoke to The Eagle at the event, offering a message for all readers: “I’d like everyone to have a safe and joyful Christmas. And, family is the most important gift.”
