Carriage rides usher in the joy of the season in downtown Geneva

Downtown Geneva is packed with fun for the holidays and what better way to take in the joyous holiday atmosphere than from atop a festive carriage pulled by a prancing horse?

Once again this year, residents and visitors alike will have a chance to experience these magical carriage rides, a long-standing staple in historic Geneva on the weekends leading up to Christmas. The complimentary carriage rides are made possible by the Geneva Chamber of Commerce and sponsors like Gerald Subaru of North Aurora.

Catch a ride between 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 18 by stopping by the departure area at South Third and James streets. From there, you'll board the "one-horse open sleigh" and experience Geneva in all its historic holiday glory.

It's an outing anticipated by all ages, one that families, couples and friends work into their schedules every year, capturing special moments in pictures to be shared on social media and saved in family scrapbooks.

"The carriage rides have been an integral part of Geneva's Christmas for as long as I can remember," said Laura Rush, communications manager for the Geneva Chamber of Commerce. "The rides are a popular tradition that many families look forward to all year long. With the help of our sponsors, we're happy to offer the rides again this season."

The carriage rides and their connection to community make them a perfect choice for Gerald Subaru of North Aurora to continue to sponsor, year after year.

"Every year, we all look forward to the carriage rides, which make the magic of the season come to life in historic downtown Geneva," said Donna Lawler, Vice President of Gerald Auto Group. "We're thrilled to help give the community these lasting holiday memories."

Downtown Geneva, nestled on the banks of the Fox River, offers a charming spot for a weekend getaway featuring elegant hotels, fine restaurants, wineries and breweries, sweet shops and plenty of shopping with more than 100 specialty shops. For more information on the town's festivals and events, visit genevachamber.com.

For more information on Gerald Subaru of North Aurora, visit www.geraldsubarunorthaurora.com.