Tree lighting, Grinch scavenger hunt to take place today

The hunt for the Grinch is on.

The Village of St. Joseph is hosting a scavenger hunt on Dec. 2 from 2 to 4 p.m.

Local businesses will host a baby Grinch stuffed animal. Participants take a photo of the Grinch and tag the photo on Instagram and Facebook with @villageofstjoseph and #grinchhunt and get a punch card stamped. Once they complete the hunt they will be entered to win two Grinch themed gift baskets.

Village of St. Joseph Administrative Assistant Ashley York spearheaded the project.

York said the idea was given to her by members of the St. Joseph Christmas Committee.

“I took their thoughts and ran with it,” she said. “I wanted this to be a free and fun event. I also wanted to make sure all our businesses were involved.”

Grinches are located at Caseys, Wagner Signs and Graphics, Monicals, Jack Flash, Dairy Queen, Wyldewood Cellars, St. Joseph IGA, The Ribcage, Subway, Geschenk, Chic N Threads and Home by K and Thompson Family Chiropractic.

York said the businesses were instantly on board.

“Let’s be honest – it’s good PR,” she said. “And that’s what I want for them. Not only is this something fun for the community and something to put a smile on someone’s face, but this is something to get people in our business’ doors.”

York said the village is trying to do several events each year to encourage people to visit the local businesses.

“I love working with our businesses and getting them involved,” York said. “Anything I can do, that has a cute idea attached – Count me in.”

The gift baskets include several Grinch themed prizes.

“We love Christmas around here, and shopping for it was so fun,” she said. “Picking out the items for the Grinch Hunt Winners put a smile on everyone’s face, I can tell you that. And the baskets just kept growing when the businesses donated to them. I hope we do this every year.”

In addition to the scavenger hunt, there will also be crafts, carolers and a visit from the Grinch starting at 4:30 in downtown St. Joseph near Loman Ray.

The tree lighting will take place at 5:30 p.m in downtown St. Joseph.

“Having our second annual Christmas Tree lighting is a great way for our community to come together and spread some holiday cheer,” said Mayor Tami Fruhling-Voges. ‘I’m hoping this event continues to grow and evolve into a Christmas tradition for those young and old to look forward to every year.”