Local Traditions: Jingle In The Junction

During the holiday season, local shops in Valley Junction host mini-events for the public on Thursday nights. The shops in Valley Junction stay open until 9:00 pm every Thursday night, November 17th through December 15th. Many stores participate in the Jingle as well as prepare their stores many weeks or even months in advance. Store Owner Catherine Hickey said, “It takes us weeks and weeks before the jingle to prepare the store. It actually takes us probably a couple of months and we slowly start breaking down the store and slowly start breaking down the windows to do the window displays.” Local store employee Tara Linden stated, “ We prepare the store by making sure inventory is filled up in the storefront and making sure our best sellers are out, especially our holiday collection and making sure that is also stocked well and in various sizes. and behind the counter, we have extra inventory as well.”

There are multiple events that occur throughout the night. Mrs. Claus and Santa make an appearance for the kids while the horses take carriage rides down the streets. “[It’s] got such a great atmosphere with Mrs. Claus and Santa Claus, the carriage rides, the reindeer, everyone’s happy, the Christmas carolers. I just love the whole event altogether, it’s just amazing,” Hickey stated. 

Jingle in the junction is a fun place to hang out with friends and family, and get some fun snacks and treats at candy shops as well as some fun clothes and apparel at all of the local shops. During the holiday season, Valley Junction puts up lots of lights on the trees, the displays, as well as the buildings. Tyler Wood, a local business owner stated, “Our best-selling items are anything that lights up.” All of the businesses in Valley Junction do a great job of putting together their stores for the holiday season. Local customers at Jingle In The Junction Amy Duder and Mike Duder stated, “It was a great experience, all the friendly and happy people in valley junction were the best part.

During the holiday season, Jingle In The Junction pulls together a great atmosphere of people, food, clothing, decorations, etc. all while bringing in the holiday spirit.