Hammond kicks off the holiday season with 'A Christmas Story' tribute

Downtown Hammond will be filled with nostalgia Saturday as the city celebrates its 125th birthday while kicking off the holiday season with its second annual tribute to "A Christmas Story."

Festivities begin at 11 a.m. with a time capsule ceremony by Mayor Thomas McDermott Jr. followed by an array of events celebrating the 1983 film written by Hammond native Jean Shepherd.

Presented by the nonprofit, volunteer-run Downtown Hammond Council, "A Christmas Story" tribute has been expanded this year to include more businesses and family fun events.

"We want this to be our signature event," said Council President Karen Maravilla. "When I became president of the council, my number one goal, besides revitalization, was to bring Christmas back to our downtown."

The celebration will take place between Sibley and Fayette streets along Hohman Avenue, with activities and events happening at Towle Theater, First Midwest Bank, the Hammond INnovation Center, South Shore Arts' Substation No. 9, Paul Henry's Gallery and the former Woolworth building.

Once again visitors can view "A Christmas Story" on a large screen (bigger than last year, Maravilla said) at the Towle at 11 a.m., 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. Admission is free.

Other events include:

* Santa and his "mean" elves at First Midwest Bank (noon to 3 p.m.)

* Children's art activities at South Shore Arts Substation (all day)

* Oh Fuuudge Recipe Contest at Hammond INnovation Center (noon to 12:30 p.m.) with The Times' own Phil Potempa

* Ralphie and his brother Randy look-a-like contest at Hammond INnovation Center (12:30 to 1 p.m.)

* Shoot Your Eye Out contest at First Midwest Bank (all day)

* Unveiling of Hammond's 125th birthday commemorative poster

There will also be an indoor garage sale, horse-drawn carriage rides, carolers, food vendors, karaoke and a vintage fire truck. Visitors can also purchase Christmas trees, wreaths and raffle tickets for "A Christmas Story" leg lamp.

Maps will be available at the event to direct visitors to activities, and the day will cap off with a tree-lighting ceremony by McDermott at 5 p.m.

FYI: DOWNTOWNHAMMOND.ORG