Home Community Join the Cheer (If You Dare!) – the Grinch’s Challenge

IMG_2599_Whooville_web — The Grinch at Whooville

Join the Cheer (If You Dare!) – the Grinch’s Challenge

November 4, 2024

By Ewa Chwojko-Srawley

The grumpiest, the most irritable grouch in town dares you to show up at the festivities on High Street on November 23. Bring your cheer if you think you can handle it!

For one magical afternoon, High Street will transform into Whoville, thanks to Debbie Macina-Balinas, owner of Sweet Peas Boutique, who three years ago had the idea for this festival and shared it with other local business owners. Now, this year’s preparations are in full swing!

Elaine Coates, owner of Black River Coffee, shares, “It’s going to be even better than last year. We’ll have fewer vendors but more events, more attractions for kids—and for the young at heart. It’s truly a time and place for the community to come together and have some fun.”

Debbie Macina-Balinas adds, “There will be lots of freebies! The main attraction is the Whoville Passport: 25 businesses will be open, each with a hidden Grinch for you to find and a small gift to collect. Once you fill your passport with stamps, you’ll also be entered into a basket draw!”

This year, there will be a walk-through of giant inflatables—including one sponsored by Georgina Post—plus a gingerbread character on stilts. LED-lit angels will mingle with the crowd, and of course, the Grinch himself will be ready for all the selfies you can handle.

Elaine Coates, owner of Black River Coffee, Debbie Macina-Balina, owner of Sweet Peas Boutique and Cynthia Ryan, owner of Loohoo Luxe

The holiday cheer won’t stop there! You can get cozy with a classic movie, popcorn in hand, sip on hot chocolate, and enjoy a tree lighting extravaganza. And just when you think it couldn’t get merrier, a DJ and live music will keep the festive vibes going strong.

Last year, the festival brought in nearly 5,000 visitors! While most were locals, some traveled from as far as Bowmanville and Guelph. This event has put Georgina on the map as a place filled with festive spirit. When it comes to celebrating, our community knows how to have a good time!

If you’re ready to experience the taste of Whoville, swing by High Street in Sutton on Saturday, November 23, from 5pm to 9 pm. The event is free, but please bring a donation for the Georgina Food Pantry.

Don’t forget to bring your holiday cheer—if you think you can handle it!