How Glass City Kringle Started

This is where the Glass City Kringle journey began.

In December 2020, seeing Santa was difficult because of COVID-19. In Oregon, Ohio, things were no different, and holiday cheer was running low. Then came a small light show called Lights on Grasser. Its goal was to help children continue to feel the magic of the holidays. That year, they launched their first show in an effort to bring a little normalcy—and a lot of joy—to the community.

But what does this have to do with Santa? Let me tell you.

After the Halloween show ended, reports began circulating that Santa might not be able to meet with children that Christmas. That news deeply affected the operator of Lights on Grasser, who asked, “How can we keep the magic of Santa available for the children who come to see the lights?”

That year, I put on the red suit for the very first time. Wearing two masks and rubber gloves beneath my white gloves, I spoke with every child who came to see the lights. That first day flipped a switch, and I have worn the red suit every year since.

My schedule is a little fuller these days, but each year I still return to where it all began and take my place at the light show. Whenever I am there, I greet every child who comes by.

That is where Glass City Kringle started, and I look forward to making you and your event part of the adventure.