NBCUniversal Media, LLC Is Main Street in Woodstock the “Merriest Main Street” in the country? Kye Martin visits the iconic town, about 60 miles west of Chicago to see why the TODAY Show chose Woodstock as one of their finalists.
Many historical Main Streets in towns across the country go all out for the holidays, with lights, decorations, holiday events and more.
One of those festive Main Streets, in McHenry county, is in the running for the TODAY Show’s “Merriest Main Street” as part of their “Countdown to Christmas.”
Woodstock’s Main Street, about 60 miles outside of Chicago, is being recognized by the TODAY Show for it’s holiday atmosphere thanks to array of local and historic businesses, holiday events, thousands of Christmas lights and its historical outdoor square and gazebo — which was used as the backdrop to film all the outdoor scenes in the iconic 1993 movie Groundhog Day.
Woodstock Vying to Win “Merriest Main Street” in America
As Woodstock, in McHenry County hopes to win the title of The TODAY Show’s “Merriest Main Street in America,” the town’s high school choir gives Kye Martin a taste of what the festive place is all about.
“Our local businesses keep Woodstock unique,” Mayor Mike Turner says. “We have a chocolatier, a train store, an independent bookstore. We dress up our historical buildings in Christmas lights. It’s an iconic place.”
According to Woodstock Business Development Director Danielle Gulli, the town was nominated for the TODAY show segment by community members who sent in applications and photos.
“Several residents submitted on Woodstock’s behalf,” Gulli said, in a blog post. “We’re really thankful to the community members who took the time to brag about their town. It’s a real community effort here.”
The town, of approximately 25,00 people, is about 60 miles west of Chicago.
