In a World of Grinches, Be a Buck! | Mayor's Moment

Season’s Greetings, Canton! I hope your holidays are off to a wonderful start. When thinking about my comments this month, there are certainly no lack of topics to cover. This time of year is simply magical in the Coolest Small Town in America! Many rightfully comment that Canton seems like a “Hallmark Movie” during the holidays, and I couldn’t agree more. I want to thank all of the individuals on our team that work tirelessly to make sure this happens, year after year. Not only do the decorations and festive events repeat each year, they only get bigger and better for the enjoyment of our residents and to benefit our businesses. 

In addition to our City sponsored events, there are many other holiday traditions in Canton to be celebrated, appreciated, and enjoyed throughout the season. Some are small and modest, while others are large and glitzy. Combined, they add to the holiday spirit in our community and offer something for everyone, young and old. That’s what truly makes this time of year so special in Canton, the collective celebration of Christmas and the holidays – the simple joys that can only be experienced in a small town. From the tree lighting in Cannon Park, to Christmas Pete towing the grinch out of all of us, to the huge gathering of family and friends for Christmas at The Mill, the list of events and activities continues to grow – and December has just begun!

However, what I find exceptional about this time of year is the spirit of giving and selfless service by so many in our community. From food and toy drives to fund raisers and warming shelters, the non-profit and service groups in Canton and Cherokee County continue to raise the bar when it comes to exemplifying the notion that it is better to give than receive. Many groups and individuals do this unnoticed, and they prefer it that way. Others, however, have a long history of promoting goodwill over the holidays. For example, the Love Lights a Tree event I emceed last weekend has a long legacy of raising funds for the American Cancer Society and honoring those in our community who have battled this horrible disease. Started almost 30 years ago by former City Councilman Wade Buchanan and his late wife, Peggy, upon the loss of their son, Steve, to cancer in 1992, “Buck” has single-handedly raised over $500,000 for the American Cancer Society since. 

For me, Mr. Buchanan, like so many others, personify and honor the true holiday spirit of bringing comfort and joy to all. Let’s follow their lead and build upon the goodwill we enjoy in Canton, because there’s no place like home for the holidays!

Holidays are Happening in Canton!

The holidays are here! From concerts and visits with Santa to parades and wagon rides, there is something for everyone in the City of Canton this holiday season.

Downtown Canton Events

All are FREE!

Visit with Santa

Dec. 9 and 16 | 2-5 PM each day

Visit with the Jolly ole' fella himself. Don't forget your camera! (Santa was originally also scheduled for Dec. 2, but his visit was canceled due to the inclement weather)

Mistletoe on Main

Dec. 7, 8, 14 | 6-9 PM

Experience 'Christmas in Canton' like you would have in the past. Enjoy a complimentary wagon ride through Downtown Canton as you take in the lights and beauty of what makes Canton a special place to be. Visit with Santa (December 8 and 14 only) in the Gazebo. The Cherokee High School 'Beat out Cancer' Club will be offering hot chocolate for a donation. Make sure to come early and enjoy dinner at one of our amazing restaurants!

Christmas in Canton

Dec. 8 | 6-9 PM

You’re invited to join us for Christmas in Canton! Activities will include a visit with Santa, petting zoo, face painting, balloon artist, s'mores station, inflatables, decorated cookie station and more! Our shops will be open late to assist you with finding the perfect gift and our restaurants will be ready to welcome you.

Merry Market

Dec. 9 | 2-6 PM

Join us for a fun afternoon of shopping, visits with Santa, live entertainment, arts & crafts, food and more! Once the Market ends, the Canton Christmas Parade begins at 6 p.m.! For a vendor application: www.cantonga.gov/merrymarket2023

Christmas Parade

Dec. 9 | 6-7 PM

Join us for a delightful holiday evening with a hometown Christmas Parade hosted by the City of Canton and Canton Optimist Club!

Historic Canton Theatre Holiday Events

Canton Hosts Open House Workshop for Parks & Rec

Looking for a fun way to shape the future of Canton's parks and recreation? Then come on down to City Hall on Wed., Dec. 6, from 5-8 p.m., for the Parks & Recreation Master Plan Open House Workshop! Be a part of the early stages of the Master Plan's development, and have your voice heard by sharing your thoughts and ideas at our feedback stations.

Stations include:



Where Do You Live Map 

Identifies what areas of the city were reached through this process

Dot Exercise

Vote for preferred features & favorite programs

Write In Comments

What do you like about existing opportunities? What would you like to see improved? 3 Topics: Parks & Facilities, Programs & Special Events, Trails & Open Space

Dollar Voting

$1,000 in play money to allocate towards the items listed on voting boxes including an “Other” option

We are excited to have you join us!

Recycle Your Christmas Trees at "Bring One for the Chipper"

Join Team Canton!

It is truly an exciting time at the City of Canton and a great time to join our team! The City of Canton offers our employees an energetic work environment and competitive salaries with excellent benefits. We encourage you to check our Career Center webpage often for new opportunities.

Current Open Positions:

December Events and Meetings