In the heart of Sault Ste. Marie, where winters are truly magical, Christmas memories linger like timeless treasures. As we say goodbye to 2024 and welcome 2025, let’s take a moment to stroll down memory lane. Imagine carolers filling the air with song, horse-drawn carriages clip-clopping through downtown, and a towering Christmas tree gracing the middle of Ashmun Street—a vivid reminder of the season’s joy.

This nostalgic spirit remains alive in Sault Ste. Marie, a city that blends its rich history with modern holiday cheer. Over the years, we’ve asked our social media followers to share their favorite Christmas memories from the Soo, and their stories are a beautiful testament to the warmth of the season.

LuAnn sums it up perfectly, “I can’t simply pick just one. They are each wonderful in their own right and hold many beautiful memories of growing up in our lovely home town. 🎅🤶💖”

The magic of Christmas in Sault Ste. Marie kicks off with the Parker ACE Hardware Parade of Lights. This cherished tradition transforms the streets into a dazzling spectacle as floats twinkle with holiday lights. Mr. and Mrs. Claus make their grand appearance, spreading cheer and setting the tone for the festive season. Mark your calendars—this event takes place the Friday after Thanksgiving (barring snowstorms.)

One of the most enduring holiday images in Sault Ste. Marie is the Ashmun Street Christmas tree. Decades ago, Ashmun Street was a bustling four-lane roadway, and every holiday season, a massive Christmas tree stood proudly at the intersection of Ashmun and Spruce Street.

“I always LOVED it when the tree was right smack in the middle of Ashmun!” one reader shared. “I know it was a traffic hazard, but it sure was beautiful! And going Christmas shopping at Kresge’s and Woolworth as a kid!”

The aluminum Christmas tree became a beloved symbol for many. Lauren and Cheryl were among this year’s commenters who fondly remembered it. Dee recalled starting the season with the “turkey hunt” on WSOO radio and reminisced about shopping downtown under the glowing lights of Woolworth’s and Kresge’s.

Beyond the tree, Ashmun Street was a hub of seasonal activity. The Central Savings Bank building added to the charm with its iconic plastic carolers perched on the roof, serenading passersby with festive tunes.

Theresa, another reader, painted a vivid picture: “Eating French fries with a Coke at the booth in Woolworth’s, watching cars go by, and seeing the tree sway in the snow and wind, glistening with Christmas lights while carols played softly inside. It was so warm and cozy.”

As the years went by, the Ashmun Street tree underwent changes. A faux tree eventually replaced the original, signaling the end of an era. Today, the city’s Christmas tree has found its home beside City Hall on Portage Avenue, where it continues to delight locals and visitors alike.

Modern-day Sault Ste. Marie continues to create fresh holiday traditions while honoring the past. One standout is the Community of Trees display at the Avery Center. Throughout December, visitors can admire beautifully decorated Christmas trees, each a work of art supporting charitable causes.

The Downtown Christmas Shopping Open House and the annual tree-lighting ceremony at City Hall are just a few of the many events that bring the Soo’s festive spirit to life. And of course, Santa Claus himself makes a special visit, bringing joy to children and families across the city.

In the most Sault Ste. Marie way imaginable, the end of the year and holiday season goes out in unique style. Instead of dropping a ball and welcoming in the New Year, we here in the Sault drop an anchor. Yes, that’s right. An anchor. The symbol that unites us all. From the Soo Locks, to the freighters, to Lake Superior State University’s athletics. An anchor embodies life in Sault Ste. Marie and along the Great Lakes. What’s a better way to welcome in the New Year?! 

Our follower Allie said, “Not Christmas, but I love that we do an anchor drop for new years! Very Soo, I would have expected nothing less lol” when reflecting on her favorite holiday moments on our Facebook page. 

Don’t miss the annual anchor drop held near the farmers’ market on the corner of Portage and Ashmun starting just before midnight on New Year’s Eve. (Bonus tip: there is a child-friendly anchor drop that takes place at 8 p.m. at the same location.)

Whether your Christmas memories are rooted in the charm of decades past or shaped by the magic of today, they’re a testament to the enduring warmth of the season in Sault Ste. Marie.

What are your cherished traditions during Christmas in the Soo or the Eastern Upper Peninsula? Share your stories with #ilovethesoo on social media and help spread the holiday cheer. For more seasonal inspiration and a guide to wintertime fun in Sault Ste. Marie, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.