Hancock, NY — Holiday spirit swept through Hancock on Saturday December 6th, as more than 3,245 children, families, and community members filled the town square for an unforgettable celebration across the whole day, combining the 17th Annual Parade of Lights, Christmas on the Square, and the community’s beloved Live Nativity, hosted by the Hazen family.
From 2–8 PM, the Hancock Town Square transformed into a festive winter village glowing with music, lights, laughter, and long-standing traditions. Organizers say this year’s turnout marks the largest attendance the event has ever seen, a testament to the community’s resilience and unity with the live Nativity from 2-4PM beginning at the Historic Methodist Church on East Main Street and making its way over to the Town Square in a storied procession.
A Cherished Tradition Lives On: The Hazen Family’s Live Nativity
Among the day’s most moving highlights was the Live Nativity, lovingly presented by Connie Hazen and her family—a tradition they’ve upheld for more than 20 years, with only a brief pause during the COVID years.
Youth from across Hancock bundled into robes, cow suits, angel wings, and shepherd cloaks to bring the Nativity story to life against a backdrop of fresh snow and crisp winter air. Despite temperatures well below freezing, the cast remained all smiles, warming their hands at nearby fire pits and enjoying s’mores alongside spectators.
Families gathered to admire the tender scene and appreciate the decades-long dedication the Hazens have brought to the town’s holiday season. For many, the Nativity is the heart of Hancock’s December festivities.
Community-Fueled Magic From Start to Finish
The event was made possible through the support of key sponsors whose generosity helped brighten the square:
Hancock Volunteer Fire Department
Bisbee Lumber & Supply / Trini Solutions
Hancock Area Chamber of Commerce
Hancock Partners
…and many additional sponsors celebrated in the event’s full photo gallery.
Throughout the square, families enjoyed:
🐐 A heartwarming Petting Zoo from Klondike Farm and the Siegler family
🔥 S’mores Stations hosted by Kaybirds Flowers & Gifts
🎡 Carnival games and festive music by B&G Tunes
🎁 Local vendors offering treats, crafts, and holiday gifts
As evening fell, excitement grew for the night’s grand finale.
A Parade of Lights to Remember
The 17th Annual Parade of Lights, proudly presented by the Hancock Volunteer Fire Department, illuminated the town with glowing floats, decorated trucks, and joyful participants of all ages. Crowds lined the streets as children waved, music played, and the spirit of the season radiated from every vehicle.
Smiles stretched from one end of the square to the other as the parade brought its special brand of magic, uniting longtime residents and first-time visitors alike.
A Night That Showcased Hancock at Its Best
The overwhelming turnout, enthusiastic participation, and heartfelt community pride made this year's festivities one for the history books. Organizers praised residents, volunteers, and businesses for helping keep Hancock’s holiday traditions strong—and growing.
“This community shines brightest when we celebrate together.”
With such unforgettable moments marking this year’s celebration, residents are already looking forward to what next December will bring.
❤️ Here’s to many more years of magic on the square. 🎅🎄🌟