Peppermint Lane is back. The historic holiday event returns to Chaparral Street in downtown Corpus Christi this year beginning Nov. 24 through into the December shopping season. The festive Christmas block party was held for only two years in 1965 and 1966, turning three blocks of Chaparral Street into a pedestrian-only holiday wonderland.
City buses painted with candy cane stripes transported tourists and locals to the area for festive shopping and activities. Rows of Christmas trees lit up the street. Business storefronts sparkled with decorations to celebrate the season. Santa came to visit his fanbase, while visitors took a ride on a carousel or stepped aboard the “Peppermint Express” for a train ride.
This year, Peppermint Lane will revive the short-lived tradition. Chaparral Street will deck the halls for three blocks with businesses competing in a decorating contest. Most importantly, there will be plenty of shopping for Christmas presents.
The Grand Opening kicks off at noon on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 24, with a kid’s carnival, crafts, and choir concerts. A ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at 6 p.m.
Battle of the Bulbs, a decorating contest for downtown businesses, runs Nov. 24-Dec. 7. The showdown has several categories, including Best Use of Lights, Best Window, Best Big Building, and Best Overall. The winner will be announced in a ceremony Dec. 7.
Check your list twice and go shopping for Christmas presents at The ArtWalk Holiday Market, which runs 5-9 p.m. on Dec. 7.