in this issue: December / January 2021
features
A Season to Remember
While this year may bring changes to how we celebrate, the reason for the season stays the same. In this issue we bring you a few twists on tradition that not only follow the rules but might make the holidays even more memorable.
Sing Along with Milt
In a spirit true to “wassailing,” longtime local chorister Milt Scott gives traditional Christmas carols some timely rewrites. Think, “dashing through the snow, with faces we don’t know . . . ”
Bonus online supplement of original lyrics >
Snappy Dressers
So what if glitz and glam have been swapped for sweaters, joggers and loungewear? Local merchants offer lots of ways to go festive with the current trend in comfort clothing.
Pandemic Party Planning
The “most wonderful time of year” may get some help in 2020 with user-friendly apps for family gatherings and clever ideas to make the holidays festive realities – including food, fun and games.
Chef Made
Searching for new holiday recipes that your guests will love? Local restaurant owners and chefs come to the rescue with time-tested culinary creations that double as fan-favorites.
Supplement – Brown Jug Cheese Soup Recipe(s)! >
columns
business
Tales of Christmas Past
It’s 1939, and holiday magic sparkles throughout Decatur, from the balcony of Greider’s Cafeteria to the Transfer House in Lincoln Square. T.G. Bolen, Esquire, shares it all through a five-year-old’s eyes.
Acts of Kindness
In Decatur, where there’s a will to give, there’s always a way. Learn how your family can tap into new ways to help those in need this holiday season.
arts & entertainment
Stuff To Do
Browse the calendar for events that will get you in the holiday spirit and entertain the entire family during December and January.
Gifts of Art
Whether packaged as sentimental family favorites or presented as free-flowing and futuristic, original creations from local artists are gifts that truly keep on giving.
travel & leisure
Road Trip to Assumption
Behind towering grain elevators and agricultural roots, this close-knit community surprises with popular breweries, cafes and unique locally owned businesses all decked out for the holidays.
Open Air Living
Practiced in Norway as friluftsliv or “free air life,” the attitude of getting outdoors and enjoying nature year-round works in Decatur, too. Dress for the weather and hit the trails — or even your own backyard.
departments
Contributors
Meet the writers, photographers and artists who bring you the best of Decatur in each issue.
Party Pix
Black hats and broomsticks showed up during the popular Witches Night Out in downtown Decatur. We have pictures.
Dining Out
Tired of cooking? Search your favorite local restaurants by category for important contact information about outdoor seating options, curbside pickup or delivery.
departments
CONTRIBUTORS*
HERE & THERE*
PARTY PIX*
CALENDAR OF EVENTS*
CHARITY DATEBOOK*
DINING OUT*
ONLY IN DECATUR*
*Available Online