We are proud to announce and recognize the generous sponsors making this year’s Crystal City Christmas season an unforgettable experience for all. These local businesses and organizations have come together to support the beloved holiday events that bring joy, unity, and magic to Downtown Corning.
“As we step into the Crystal City Christmas event season, including the 50th Sparkle, we are overwhelmed with gratitude to our sponsors,” said Coleen Fabrizi, Executive Director of Corning’s Gaffer District. “Their generosity and passion for our cherished CCC traditions make an extraordinary difference!”
Among this year’s sponsors is Connors Mercantile, which brings the magic of Santa’s Crystal House to life in Centerway Square. Barry Nicholson, owner of Connors Mercantile, expressed how much the holiday tradition means to them: “For Connors Mercantile, Santa seeing children in the Crystal House in Corning’s Gaffer District has always been representative of the true spirit of the holiday season. We are so excited to support the revitalization of Santa’s Crystal House for the 50th anniversary of Sparkle and look forward to seeing families enjoy it for many years to come.”
Adding to the festive fun, Stunning and Brilliant Events FLX is sponsoring a sleigh selfie-station, providing a unique holiday photo opportunity. Owner and lead planner Bianca Finucane shared her personal inspiration for becoming involved: “In honor of my grandmother, I’m giving everyone ‘a little something’ this holiday season. So pose, smile, and capture the memories that sometimes fade.” The sleigh station will be a beautiful spot for families to document their holiday memories in Corning.
This year’s Crystal City Christmas is also enriched by Highstreet | Perry & Carroll Insurance, proud sponsors of the Gaffer Gives Back event which will be held at Carey’s Brew House on December 10. Meredith Rogers, President of Operations, described their commitment, saying, “As a proud sponsor of Crystal City Christmas, we are excited to demonstrate our commitment to the Gaffer District’s initiatives and celebrate the unique spirit and potential that our community holds. Through Highstreet | Perry & Carroll’s investment, we aim to empower initiatives that uplift, connect, and inspire, fostering a vibrant environment where everyone can thrive together.”
Our district’s seasonal traditions wouldn’t be complete without the stunning Centerway Christmas Tree, generously sponsored by Aniello’s Pizzeria. Ann Marie Kinlin of Aniello’s shared, “Aniello’s is thrilled to add to Corning’s holiday cheer by continuing our tradition of sponsoring the tree in Centerway Square.”
The list continues of sponsors stepping up to ensure that the spirit of the season reaches every corner of downtown. M&T Bank is sponsoring Small Business Saturday, helping to promote Corning’s unique local shops. “For more than 165 years, M&T has strived to take an active role in our communities and build long-lasting relationships with our customers,” said Josh Weidman, Assistant Vice President. “When our small businesses thrive, so do our local communities and economies. That is why we are excited to support the Gaffer District’s Crystal City Christmas Small Business Saturday.”
Siemens Energy joins as sponsor of the Volunteer Appreciation Program, honoring the many volunteers whose contributions make Crystal City Christmas possible. Siemens Energy is “proud to sponsor the Volunteer Appreciation Program, recognizing the incredible efforts of those who selflessly give their time and energy to make a difference," - Caitlin Richards of Siemens Energy.
An exciting new promo and sponsor has arrived on the scene this year — Barb Vasallo of Rabbit Row Yarns and Haberdashery is the proud sponsor of our new Elf on the Shelf promo that will be running from November 30 through December 14 through our social media platforms. Barb shared, “Christmastime on Market Street evokes a charm and nostalgia of seasons past that I want to be a part of. I’m happy to be participating in Crystal City Christmas as a sponsor of the Elf on the Shelf promo this year.”
Last, but not least, Corning’s Gaffer District wants to recognize and thank Edger & Associates for sponsoring the Jingle & Jangle Petting Zoo at Sparkle, The Butcher’s Son for sponsoring the Christmas Train at Sparkle, and Guthrie Corning Hospital for their sponsorship of the entire Shop Local season.
We invite the community to join us in celebrating this Crystal City Christmas. For more information about this year’s festivities or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call the Gaffer District at (607) 937-6292 or email info@gafferdistrict.com.