You better watch out, you better not cry, you better not shout, I’m telling you why! Santa & #Elfie are coming to Annapolis (at a proper social distance of course) to celebrate the 175th Birthday of the United States Naval Academy with a holiday tree more than 20 feet tall.
The Downtown Annapolis Partnership chose the theme to celebrate this milestone for the Academy, and to recognize the longstanding relationship with the residents & businesses in the city.
Erik Evans, DAP Executive Director, & DAP Secretary, Judy Buddensick, (a long time USNA “Sponsor Mom”) approached the USNA Alumni Association with the idea. Kristen Pironis (EVP Marketing & Communications) & Nadine Smith (Director, Enterprise Events & Marketing) loved it. They were thrilled to become a holiday partner and immediately went to work on their theme.
The tree, at Market Space on City Dock, is adorned with ornaments custom made from Shipmate (USNA Alumni Magazine) ‘cover art’, hand crafted knotted garland, Midshipmen Covers (hats) and more than 1500 lights.
After serving a special Thanksgiving meal to the Brigade, USNA Superintendent, Vice Admiral Sean Buck brought his family to see the tree today. Riveted by all the history represented in the ornaments, he commented “It’s absolutely spectacular. Thank you, to everyone that made this happen. We are honored & grateful.”
Ms. Buddensick remarked “We wanted to brighten the holidays for our Midshipmen, Officers, & everyone on the yard. They are a vibrant part of our Annapolis Community.” She also noted that 2020 marks the 10th Anniversary of Sheehy Lexus as title sponsor of Midnight Madness, and the entire season of holiday events. Paul LaRochelle, GM of Sheehy Lexus, is a Navy Veteran and USNA “Sponsor Dad.” He was thrilled with the concept for this year’s tree; his nephew is a member of the USNA Class of 2021.
Santa Claus & #Elfie will be strolling through Downtown Annapolis and will be available for socially distant selfies at #SnowflakeAlley, exclusively for shoppers on the “Nice List.”
In addition to Sheehy Lexus & the USNA Alumni Association, this year’s major sponsors include The City of Annapolis, BGE & Diehl’s Produce Market. Sean O’Neill & RBC Wealth Management are the sponsors of #SnowflakeAlley.
Annapolis has been named as one of the best Christmas towns to visit for the holidays by Country Living and one of the most festive Christmas cities in the USA by 24/7 Wall Street. This is in strong part due to Midnight Madness (December 3, 10, and 17).
For those unable to enjoy these shopping events in person the Downtown Annapolis Partnership has made it easy to shop your favorite downtown Annapolis businesses online at www.midnightmadnessannapolis.com. Be on the lookout for the new “Open Late for Safe Shopping” flags that merchants can put up on evenings they are open late. Free garage parking for the holidays will be more plentiful than ever in downtown Annapolis with four parking garages offering long term free holiday parking.
Shop Small. Shop Local. Shop Downtown Annapolis.
