For years, downtown Cleveland and Public Square have served as a backdrop for Northeast Ohioans’ Christmas memories.
Whimsical holiday window displays faced Public Square, attracting shoppers and passersby. Inside the Terminal Tower was a winter wonderland with decorated trees, garland, lights and more. The decorations inside and out brought a festive, holiday feel to the downtown area.
And for the past several years, a Nativity scene – reminding all of the reason for the season -- has been part of the holiday decorations.
This year, despite the ongoing pandemic, families still can experience the magic of the holidays with Winterfest throughout December.
Because of the pandemic, the Downtown Cleveland Alliance reimagined the look and feel of Winterfest 2020, including shifting the traditional live, in-person lighting ceremony on Public Square to a broadcast event that took place on Nov. 28 on WKYC TV 3.
If viewers looked closely, they could see the 400-square-foot outdoor crèche in the northeast block of Public Square. The 10-piece display was assembled the week prior to the lighting ceremony by volunteers from the Knights of Columbus, Cleveland Council No. 733.
Led by Knight Rich Taylor, the crew began its work in the morning by loading an unconstructed set that was stored in the former Diocese of Cleveland chancery building behind the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist. The crèche was transported carefully down Superior Avenue to Public Square.
“The Nativity has been passed down and donated by an Altar and Rosary Society from a merged parish. It is delicate. We take it slow and steady during the set-up process,” Taylor said.
The Knights’ chapter is seeking sponsors and donations to help preserve and restore the crèche and to add new pieces.
“Year after year it’s a true collaboration between the city, our chapter and the diocese. All parties involved are helpful and it is awesome to know we are working to spread the true meaning of this season to all those that visit downtown,” Taylor said.
Those interested in donating or helping support future efforts may inquire via email.
Winterfest holiday lights will remain active through Jan. 3, 2021. To learn more, visit winterfestCLE.com