Hallmark Christmas movies are always set in the most perfect Christmas towns, but that isn’t the only reason we love those movies so much. Media psychology researcher, T. Makana Chock, observed about them, “There’s a lot of dopamine and oxytocin that gets released in watching these things. They can be very de-stressing. They make you feel happier.” They do always have a happy ending, which helps remind us that hope is always alive, a much-needed reminder during times when we are bombarded with constant stressors. And as much as we love the Christmas season, it can be an incredibly stressful time. So mark your calendar for the Christmas “Inn” Our Town Festival in Fountain Inn that is like a Hallmark Christmas movie setting, where you can de-stress and enjoy yourself for a while during the season that is also called the most wonderful time of year!
Christmas has historical significance for Fountain Inn. It was established on Christmas Eve in 1886. So a Christmas festival tradition since 1988 couldn’t be more fitting …
City of Fountain Inn Municipality - Government/Facebook
… or more fun! The festival runs for about a week or more, but the town officially kicks off its Christmas festivities about a week prior with an annual tree lighting with fireworks.
City of Fountain Inn Municipality - Government/Facebook
At every turn, there is something to enjoy, perhaps starting with a horse-drawn carriage ride.
City of Fountain Inn Municipality - Government/Facebook
There are also train rides available for the kids, a boy’s dream come true.
City of Fountain Inn Municipality - Government/Facebook
Christmas artwork adds to the fun, festive decor everywhere.
City of Fountain Inn/YouTube
There will be live music to enjoy and plenty of places for capturing pictures to remember the fun experiences at this special event.
City of Fountain Inn Municipality - Government/Facebook
City of Fountain Inn Municipality - Government/Facebook
Of course, Santa will be there, the perfect chance to be sure he knows your wishlist and to get a photo with him, for free.
City of Fountain Inn Municipality - Government/Facebook Look for Mrs. Claus in the parade!
But if you happen to miss him or just want to be sure he remembers, you can always mail him the list while you’re at the festival.
City of Fountain Inn/YouTube
Don’t miss a visit to his workshop!
City of Fountain Inn Municipality - Government/Facebook
You never know who else you might run into at the festival. This is internationally-renowned dancer and Fountain Inn local Clayton “Peg Leg” Bates riding in a carriage downtown one year!
City of Fountain Inn Municipality - Government/Facebook
Admission is free but be sure to bring money for any food you may want to purchase or other activities requiring a fee. This is one of the food trucks that were at the festival one year.
City of Fountain Inn Municipality - Government/Facebook
Get a quick sneak peek at the Christmas “Inn” Our Town Festival:
City of Fountain Inn Municipality - Government/Facebook
City of Fountain Inn/YouTube
Look for Mrs. Claus in the parade!
Check the Fountain Inn Facebook page for updates and for information on carriage ride tickets, which may need to be purchased in advance. You can also see the dates for the festival on the Fountain Inn events calendar.
What is your favorite Hallmark Christmas movie? Please share with us in the comments below!
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Address: Fountain Inn, SC, USA
