Celebrating Community, Connecting with New Customers: The Athens Victorian Stroll

The Historic Hudson River Village of Athens, NY comes together the second Saturday of every December to revel in its storied past, celebrating the holidays as in a bygone era.  Welcoming storefronts invite visitors from near and far to step inside and become part of this unique community as imagined in the 19^th century.

The village itself was already 200 years old when ladies and gentlemen took afternoon strolls in Victorian times, and today’s residents find joy in the opportunity to show off their homes and businesses to a new and returning friends each year.

There are 17 Stops on the Athens Victorian Stroll – each with a program of events to delight all who pass through their doors.

The Athens Cultural Center Building Blocks Pre-School Crossroads Brewery Bonfiglio & Bread Light House Church Athens Senior Center R. Everts Library Athens Museum Athens Municipal Building First Reformed Church of Athens American Legion Historic Home – 98 Second Street Athens Firehouse Historic Home – 30 South Franklin Street Historic Home – 35 South Franklin Street The Stewart House (Inn & Tavern) National Bank of Coxsackie

Walking the stroll is a great way to experience the village first hand, but there are also horse-drawn and historic replica trolleys for those who’d prefer a ride.

Community leaders and business owners alike recognize the value of this growing event, as more and more people recognize the village as a destination for products and services throughout the year.

Every business along the route is especially festive as the afternoon becomes evening and performers make multiple appearances at a variety of stops.

Walk-in traffic is brisk as customers search out the perfect holiday gift, enjoy all types of delicacies from street-fare to pub-grub to haute cuisine.

The final flourish comes as evening falls at the Riverfront Park and everyone gathers for the official tree lighting and carol-sing complete with bonfire and s’mores.  As kids and families make their way back home, lots of grown-ups head for a meal and libation at The Stewart House, Crossroads Brewing Company, or Rive Gauche Bistro – the perfect end to a perfect day in Greene County, NY.

If you want to learn more about how to Make It In Greene, check out our free helpful business guides and contact the Invest In Greene team by email or phone at 518-719-3290.

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