Zelienople readies for 9th annual Miracle on Main Street
Zelienople’s Main Street will once again turn into a festive holiday hub when the borough hosts its ninth annual Miracle on Main Street from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4.
This year’s event will feature several new additions, including a live petting zoo near Four Corners Park by Santa’s House and a special appearance from the Pittsburgh Pirates Parrot, who will greet visitors and pose for photos at Mathew Jewelers, according to lead organizer Megan Murphy.
The store is also planning a tailgate-style setup with a s’mores bar and a small campfire for visitors.
Meanwhile, the celebration will once again offer a full slate of returning favorites, including horse and carriage rides, a live nativity, cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus at Spring on Main, a balloon artist and free face painting with Disney princesses Anna and Elsa.
For the second straight year, visitors can also participate in an Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunt at participating Main Street businesses.
The evening will culminate with the holiday parade at 7 p.m. PennDOT is planning to fully close the street a few minutes before the parade begins, Murphy said.
Aside from the activities, Miracle on Main Street continues to support local families through several charitable initiatives.
This year’s primary beneficiary is the Zelienople Area Public Library, more specifically, its building-expansion fund.
“We just think that for the children in our community, the library is such a fantastic resource,” Murphy said. “We wanted to help jump-start their fundraising campaign.”
The traditional free coat giveaway for those in need of warm winter clothes is also back inside the lobby of New Health Solutions on Main Street.
Murphy said one of the most meaningful additions this year is a partnership with St. Peter’s Reformed Church and St. Paul Lutheran Church, which will allow organizers to provide Christmas dinners and gifts to several local families.
Community members can nominate families living in the Zelienople or Harmony area through the event website until Tuesday, Dec. 9.
Murphy said the spirit of giving and community involvement is what keeps Miracle on Main Street a memorable event.
“It’s so humbling to see everyone come together,” she said. “Some years you can give, and some years you’re the one in need — and that’s the beauty of it. We’re here to serve each other.”
Organizers are also emphasizing the use of a free shuttle service, which will run from 4 to 8 p.m. The shuttle will transport attendees between Main Street and two off-site parking lots at Connoquenessing Valley Elementary School and Glade Run, helping ease parking challenges downtown.
The event is free and open to the public.
