Despite a snowy forecast, the holiday spirit will shine bright in downtown Atlantic this weekend. The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce announced today that the annual Lighted Parade, presented by NISHNANET, will proceed rain, snow, or shine on Saturday, December 6th at 6 PM as planned.

However, out of an abundance of caution for the safety and well-being of the horses and handlers, horse-drawn carriage rides scheduled for Saturday have been canceled. Carriage rides are set to return next Saturday, December 13th, from 1:30–3:30 PM.

“The safety of our participants—both two-legged and four-legged—is always a priority,” said Kelsey Beschorner, Executive Director of the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce. “While we’re disappointed to pause carriage rides this weekend, we look forward to welcoming them back next Saturday. And we are absolutely thrilled to keep the parade rolling as planned. The Lighted Parade has become a true hallmark of the holiday season in Atlantic.”

The beloved Lighted Parade will once again fill Chestnut Street with dazzling displays, festive music, and holiday cheer. Floats will feature creative themes and spectacular lighting, with awards for Best Overall, Best Holiday Spirit, and the Twinkle Twinkle Award, sponsored by NISHNANET. The evening’s magic will begin with fireworks over the Rock Island Depot at 6 PM.

Due to the continued growth of parade attendance, a no-throw policy including candy and other handouts will once again be in effect for all floats and walking participants. “This step helps ensure the safety of the thousands of spectators who line the streets each year,” Beschorner said. “We’re excited to welcome another incredible crowd and want to keep the experience joyful and safe for everyone.”

Saturday’s festivities begin long before the parade. Families can enjoy Pancakes with Santa at the Nishna Valley Family YMCA starting at 9 AM, sponsored by Akin Building Center–Atlantic, Smith Land Service, Atlantic Dental Center, Sonntag Development, and Nishna Valley Dental. Santa will be in his Cabin in City Park from 3 PM to 5:30 PM.

To stay up to date on all things Christmas in Atlantic, pick up a Christmas brochure at local retailers, follow the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce on Facebook or Instagram (@AtlanticIowaFan), or visit www.atlanticiowa.com for a full schedule. Christmas in Atlantic is presented by Gregg Young of Atlantic.

Share the holiday magic using #MyAtlanticIA and #ChristmasInAtlantic on social media. For questions, contact the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce at chamber@atlanticiowa.com or 712-243-3017.

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce a Small Business Saturday Re-Do on Saturday, December 6th, after winter weather disrupted last weekend’s celebration. The new date aligns perfectly with one of the most anticipated days of the year, Atlantic’s #1 tourism day, thanks to a full lineup of Christmas in Atlantic festivities happening throughout the community.

“We’re proud to work alongside our business community to bring special activities and incentives to Small Business Saturday,” said Kelsey Beschorner, Executive Director of the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce. “Even though Mother Nature had other plans last weekend, hosting our Re-Do on a day filled with holiday magic gives everyone another chance to show the love for our small businesses.”

Christmas in Atlantic brings thousands to town each year, and this Saturday is packed with events for all ages. Festivities kick off with Pancakes with Santa at the Nishna Valley Family YMCA from 9–11 AM, followed by Santa’s Cabin and Carriage Rides in Atlantic City Park from 3–5:30 PM. The excitement continues into the evening as fireworks launch the Lighted Christmas Parade at 6 PM in Downtown Atlantic. Many additional community events are planned throughout the day, and the full schedule can be found at www.atlanticiowa.com.

This year, on Small Business Saturday, the Chamber introduced the new Chestnut Street Tote Program. Shoppers can purchase a limited-edition Chestnut Street tote bag exclusively at the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce. The bag features the Chestnut Street ornament and a tag listing participating businesses offering special promotions for tote users. Only 85 totes will be available, making this a limited holiday collectible that encourages shoppers to explore and support businesses across Atlantic.

As part of the Small Business Saturday Re-Do, the Chamber will be open from noon to 2 PM on December 6th for shoppers to purchase a Chestnut Street tote, pick up AtlanticCash, browse holiday bundles, and learn about community-wide promotions and activities.

Shoppers can visit www.atlanticiowa.com to find deals, participating merchants, and more information about the Chestnut Street Tote Program.

Small Business Saturday is presented by First Whitney Bank & Trust.

The annual Lighted Parade, presented by NISHNANET, will fill downtown Atlantic with holiday cheer this Saturday, December 6th, starting at 6 PM.

“The Lighted Parade has really become a hallmark of the holiday season in Atlantic,” said Kelsey Beschorner, Executive Director of the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce. “Every year we’re amazed by the imagination and effort that go into the displays. It’s a joyful way for families to kick off December together.”

Due to the growing crowd size in recent years, the Chamber is implementing a no-throw policy again this year. No items, including candy, may be thrown or handed out by floats or walking participants at any point along the parade route or sidewalks. This change helps ensure the safety of the large number of spectators lining Chestnut Street.

“Our priority is making sure everyone can enjoy the parade safely,” Beschorner said. “With the growing number of spectators, this adjustment helps keep the streets clear and ensures the event runs smoothly. We’re thrilled to see the parade continue to grow, and this step helps us maintain a safe, festive environment for everyone.”

Each float will feature a holiday theme, lighting, and music. Awards will be given for Best Overall, Best Holiday Spirit, and the Twinkle Twinkle Award, sponsored by NISHNANET. Fireworks will launch the evening’s Christmas magic over the Rock Island Depot beginning at 6 PM. The Lighted Parade & Fireworks are sponsored by NISHNANET, A.M. Cohron & Son, McDermott Roofing, and Rush, CPA & Associates.

Before the parade, families are invited to join Santa and the Pancake Man at the Nishna Valley Family YMCA beginning at 9 AM for Pancakes with Santa and other fun activities. Santa will be in his Cabin in City Park from 3 PM to 5:30 PM, where free carriage rides will also be available. Pancakes with Santa is sponsored by Akin Building Center–Atlantic, Smith Land Service, Atlantic Dental Center, Sonntag Development, and Nishna Valley Dental.

Those wishing to participate in the Lighted Parade can find a registration form at www.atlanticiowa.com. Line-up begins at 5 PM at 6th & Walnut Street, with judging at 5:30 PM. Registration is encouraged but not required.

Pick up a Christmas brochure from area retail businesses, ‘like’ the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce on Facebook, or follow on Instagram (@AtlanticIowaFan) to stay up to date on Christmas in Atlantic. A full schedule of activities and a printable brochure can be found at www.atlanticiowa.com.

Capture the Christmas magic using #MyAtlanticIA and share your photos on the Atlantic Area Chamber’s Facebook or Instagram pages. Contact the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce with any questions at chamber@atlanticiowa.com or 712-243-3017. Christmas in Atlantic is presented by Gregg Young of Atlantic.

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the launch of the Chestnut Street Tote Program, debuting on Small Business Saturday, November 29th. This new initiative encourages residents and visitors to shop local, support small businesses, and celebrate Atlantic’s holiday traditions.

The Chestnut Street tote features Christmas in Atlantic Chestnut Street ornament printed on the front, which in turn, inspired the program’s name with a nod to the community’s beloved holiday celebrations.

The Chamber will hold special hours from 10 AM to 1 PM on Small Business Saturday to kick off the program and begin selling the totes. Bags will be available exclusively at the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce for $10 each and only 85 totes are available, making them a limited-edition holiday keepsake.

Each tote includes a special tag listing all participating businesses and the exclusive promotions they are offering to shoppers who bring in their Chestnut Street bag. Businesses all across Atlantic are joining the program, offering everything from discounts to special perks to encourage local shopping throughout the season.

“We’re thrilled to introduce the Chestnut Street Tote Program as a fun and meaningful way to support our local retailers,” said Kelsey Beschorner, Executive Director of the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce. “The tote celebrates the magic of Christmas in Atlantic while giving shoppers an easy way to enjoy savings and discover businesses throughout our community.”

Local businesses are enthusiastic about the initiative as well. “Small Business Saturday is one of our most meaningful days of the year,” said Carrie Schmitt, owner of Homebody. “The Chestnut Street Tote Program gives people another great reason to visit locally owned shops and helps create a shared experience across the community.”

A full list of participating businesses and their special offers is available on the Chamber’s website at www.AtlanticIowa.com, and will continue to be updated as more businesses join.

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce invites the community to stop by on November 29th, purchase a Chestnut Street tote, and kick off the holiday shopping season by supporting Atlantic’s vibrant local businesses.

About the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to fostering economic growth, supporting local businesses, and enhancing the quality of life in the Atlantic community. Through events, business development programs, and community partnerships, the Chamber works to strengthen the local economy and promote Atlantic as a vibrant place to live, work, and visit. Learn more at www.AtlanticIowa.com.

The Annual Grand Lighting Ceremony, sponsored by Akin Building Center and Coyote Willow Wind, will be tomorrow, Thursday, November 20^th, at 5 PM at the Historic Rock Island Depot in Downtown Atlantic.

“Atlantic continues to shine as one of Travel Iowa’s top destinations for celebrating the Christmas season, and the Grand Lighting plays a huge part in that,” said Kelsey Beschorner, Executive Director of the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce. “More than 200,000 lights illuminate the trees along Chestnut Street and throughout City Park, creating a setting that feels absolutely enchanting for visitors and residents alike.”

Grand Lighting kicks off at 5 PM with a free hot dog meal, provided by Atlantic Hy-Vee. There will be free hot chocolate, sponsored by Masonic Lodge and Walmart, as well at the Chamber tent. Charlie Stogdill will DJ from 5 – 5:30 PM, with Santa making his special arrival at 5:30 PM to turn on the lights. He will see children in his cabin, sponsored by Atlantic Rotary Club, Akin Building Center, Coyote Willow Wind, Heritage House and Farmhouse & Flowers, from 6 PM – 7:30 PM.

“We couldn’t achieve this level of holiday magic without the incredible dedication of the Atlantic Street Department,” said Beschorner. “They have spent weeks trimming trees, rehanging lights, garland, and decorations across downtown and 7th Street, and they helped us add a few fun new features in City Park this year. Their hard work is a gift to the community, and we’re truly grateful for everything they do.”

Pick up a Christmas brochure from area retail businesses, ‘like’ the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce on Facebook or follow on Instagram (AtlanticIowaFan) to find dates and details to celebrate Christmas in Atlantic. You can find a complete list of activities and a printable version of the brochure at www.atlanticiowa.com.

Capture the Christmas magic with #MyAtlanticIA and post to the Atlantic Area Chamber’s Facebook or Instagram pages. Contact the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce with any questions at chamber@atlanticiowa.com or call 712-243-3017. Christmas in Atlantic is presented by Gregg Young of Atlantic.

Welcoming the season with hometown pride and holiday sparkle, the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the launch of Christmas in Atlantic apparel! Limited-edition crew-neck sweatshirts celebrating the community known as one of the best Christmas towns in Iowa.

The new Gildan Unisex Heavy Blend Crewneck Sweatshirts, starting at $30, are available in three classic holiday colors red, green, and sand, the cozy sweatshirts feature a cheerful design reading “Merry Christmas from Atlantic, Iowa” alongside a charming outline of Iowa adorned with holly. The look is festive, nostalgic, and full of small-town pride.

The special-edition sweatshirts will be available now through November 30th, with a tentative ship date of December 10th. Customers may select local pickup at the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce or ship directly to family and friends, making it easy to send “a Christmas hug from home” to loved ones near and far.

“This is something we’ve dreamed about offering for years,” said the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce. “Our ornaments and mugs have become beloved holiday staples, and adding apparel felt like the perfect next step. It’s a way for anyone with ties to Atlantic to wear a bit of home during the most magical time of year,” said Kelsey Beschorner, Executive Director of the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce.

The launch builds on Atlantic’s reputation as a can’t-miss Christmas destination, from the dazzling Downtown lights and the Santa Cabin in City Park to carriage rides, the lighted parade, and a strong tradition of supporting local shopping.

The sweatshirts are part of the Chamber’s Holiday Shop line and will be offered only for a limited time. Community members, past and present, are encouraged to order early to guarantee availability.

To purchase the Christmas in Atlantic sweatshirt or learn more about Christmas in Atlantic, visit: www.atlanticiowa.com.

Pick up your Christmas brochure from area retail businesses, ‘like’ the Chamber on Facebook or follow on Instagram to find dates and details to celebrate Christmas in Atlantic. You can find a complete list of activities and a printable version of the brochure at www.atlanticiowa.com.

Contact the Atlantic Area Chamber with any questions at chamber@atlanticiowa.com or call 712-243-3017. Christmas in Atlantic is presented by Gregg Young of Atlantic.

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the 2025 Angel(s) of Christmas, sponsored by Cass Health. The Angel of Christmas is a tradition in Atlantic, recognizing and thanking area residents and organizations who symbolize the true meaning of the season. Angels exemplify the true holiday spirit all year long, and put others first, spreading generosity and sharing the holiday spirit with everyone they meet.

“The heart of the holidays shines brightest through everyday acts of kindness. Honoring those who quietly lift others up reminds us that the spirit of Christmas isn’t a season; it’s a way of living,” Kelsey Beschorner, Executive Director at the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce said.

Past Angels of Christmas titles have been awarded to: Mary-Ann Moorman, Steve Livengood, Sheri Lecbeck, Pastor Leon Hodges, Bob Boots, Devin Hogue, Marcia Weis, Gary & Lucy Newton, Wickman Chemical, Steve Andersen, Tom McLaren, and the Atlantic Food Panty volunteers Ken Burkhart and Sharon Sandhorst.

Please nominate the Christmas Angel you know to the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce by November 29^th.  Nominate by submitting comments about this person to the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce or email chamber@atlanticiowa.com. You can find a nomination form on www.atlanticiowa.com/christmas-in-atlantic.

Pick up a Christmas in Atlantic brochure from area businesses, ‘like’ the Chamber on Facebook or follow on Instagram (AtlanticIowaFan) to find dates and details to celebrate Christmas in Atlantic. You can find a complete list of activities and a printable version of the brochure at www.atlanticiowa.com. For additional information, contact the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce at chamber@atlanticiowa.com or 712-243-3017.

Christmas in Atlantic is proudly presented by Gregg Young of Atlantic.

For more than two decades, a simple box filled with food has meant something extraordinary to families in Cass County, hope, comfort, and the chance to share Christmas dinner together.

This holiday season, Atlantic Rising, in partnership with Hy-Vee, is once again leading the beloved Christmas Box Program, continuing a tradition that began more than 20 years ago with West Central Community Action. What started as a small effort to brighten the holidays has grown into one of Atlantic’s cherished community projects. A project that proves the spirit of giving is alive and well.

“Every box we deliver represents more than a meal. It’s a reminder that our community cares,” says Kelsey Beschorner, Atlantic Rising Treasurer/Secretary. “For some families, it’s the difference between going without and gathering around the table together.”

Last year, Atlantic Rising members and volunteers delivered boxes of Christmas dinners to 140 individuals and families across Cass County. But this year, with rising costs and continued challenges, the need is expected to grow significantly.

“We’re already seeing an increase in need,” Beschorner says. “Our goal is to make sure that no one in our community goes without this Christmas, but we can’t do it alone.”

To make the program possible, Atlantic Rising raises funds through fundraisers including a super fun event, Glow BINGO, that was hosted in July. The event brought laughter, light, and generosity together for one important cause; ensuring that everyone can experience the joy of Christmas dinner.

“Glow BINGO was so much fun, but what really shines is the kindness of those who came out to support the event,” Beschorner adds. “The money raised goes straight into curating boxes that will fill homes with warmth and good food.”

On Thursday, December 11th, Atlantic Rising members and local volunteers will gather once again to pack and deliver boxes filled with all the essentials for a festive Christmas meal .

“Atlantic Rising is proud to carry on this tradition,” Beschorner says. “With Hy-Vee’s partnership and the incredible support of our community, we’re not just delivering food; we’re delivering hope.”

If you’d like to help make the holidays brighter for a local family, you can nominate a family or individual, volunteer to help, or make a donation to the Christmas Box Program. Contact Atlantic Rising at 712.243.3017 or chamber@atlanticiowa.com.

Listed as Travel Iowa’s number one Christmas destination, downtown Atlantic shines bright each year with nearly 200,000 lights spanning six blocks. It’s a scene straight out of a Hallmark movie, with twinkling streets, warm shop windows, and a community overflowing with holiday cheer.

“I look forward to Christmas in Atlantic every year,” said Kelsey Beschorner, Executive Director of the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce. “It’s such a special time for our community. Families come from all over to experience the magic of our downtown, enjoy free holiday activities, and shop our fantastic locally owned businesses. It truly captures the spirit of the season in Atlantic.”

The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Gregg Young of Atlantic as the presenting sponsor for this year’s Christmas festivities.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Gregg Young of Atlantic to help bring this beloved tradition to life,” Beschorner shared. “Their support helps make each event even more memorable.”

The celebration begins Saturday, November 8th with the Holiday Open House. Local retailers will open their doors for a festive preview of the season featuring treats, giveaways, and special promotions.

For the nineth year, the Chamber will offer AtlantiCash at a discounted rate as part of the Holiday Promotion, sponsored by First Whitney Bank & Trust, Cappel’s Ace Hardware and Akin Building Centers.

“Last year $40,000 worth sold in just 45 minutes,” Beschorner said. “Every dollar goes right back into local businesses, which is what makes this program so impactful.”

For one day only, on Saturday, November 8th, discounted AtlantiCash will be available from 9 AM to 12 PM (or while supplies last) at the Chamber. Packs of $100 in AtlantiCash will be sold for $80, with a limit of three packs per person.

The Annual Grand Lighting Ceremony, sponsored by Atlantic Municipal Utilities, takes place Thursday, November 20th at 5 PM at the Historic Rock Island Depot. Santa will make a special arrival at 5:30 PM to help light up downtown and visit with children in his cabin from 6 to 7:30 PM at City Park.

The Lighted Parade and Fireworks, one of Atlantic’s most cherished traditions, will be held Saturday, December 6th, starting at 6 PM. Parade entries can be submitted by filling out the form and emailing it to chamber@atlanticiowa.com. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required. The parade and fireworks are sponsored by A.M. Cohron & Son, NISHNANET, McDermott Roofing, and Rush, CPA & Associates.

Before the parade, families can visit Santa’s Cabin for hot chocolate, treats, and horse-drawn carriage rides from 3 to 5:30 PM, sponsored by Lloyd & Meredith, Roland Funeral Home, and Heritage House. Visit www.atlanticiowa.com for Santa’s full schedule. Santa’s Cabin is sponsored by the Atlantic Rotary Club, Farmhouse & Flowers, Coyote Will Wind, Heritage House, and Akin Building Centers.

The Angel of Christmas Award is another cherished tradition that recognizes a community member, or organization, who embodies the true spirit of giving during the holiday season. This heartwarming honor celebrates those who go above and beyond to spread kindness, joy, and generosity throughout the Atlantic area. Nominations are due to the Chamber by November 29th, and the award is proudly sponsored by Cass Health.

Updates and event details can be found at www.atlanticiowa.com or on the Chamber’s Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat pages.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to share the holiday spirit using #MyAtlanticIA on Facebook and Instagram (@AtlanticIowaFan). For additional information, contact the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce at chamber@atlanticiowa.com or 712-243-3017.

Christmas in Atlantic is proudly presented by Gregg Young of Atlantic.